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About the CD An Affaire of the Heart
In the animal kingdom, courtship begins with a show of vulnerability called the “baring of the throat.” It signals that both partners are allowing themselves to become vulnerable – a trait of merging with another in union. The first cut of the CD conveys this willingness to be vulnerable in an arrangement of a traditional Greek melody.
The tracks build from vulnerability to the undeniable yearning for the object of the desire. The coming together in celebration is found in Revelrie and The Way She Walks. The Turkish composition of Revelrie is the result of one of Almine’s favorite passions: ethnic dancing.
A superb middle-eastern, Polynesian and Flamenco dancer, her appreciations for these rhythms are obvious in her music. The Gypsy rhythms of The Way She Walks is likewise something she greatly admires because of its instinctual roots.
The Passion Begins, a Portuguese Fado song, goes deeply into the masculine, more proactive aspect of feminine sexuality. All female voices on this CD are Almine’s and this track, as well as others indicate her extraordinary vocal versatility.
Almine’s ability, well-known amongst her student base, to speak many different ancient languages, is utilized in the intimate song The Mystery of You. The background vocals were ad lib by her in a single recorded take. They were subsequently very slightly edited, but never altered.
Shayina is the song of consummation – the grand moment of passionate merging reminiscent of the Russian composer Orf, the song to make love to. The deeply textured composition is superbly stirring.
Afterglow, an arrangement of a Greek folk song, intertwines the masculine and feminine vocals with a sensual, languorous movement. The instrumental authenticity supports the feeling of being transported into a rich and exotic Mediterranean experience.
Tracklist
Click on any track to listen to a 30 second clip (MP3 format)
5 Revelrie 11 Shayina 12 Afterglow 13 Finale |
