Unknown Nearness - Misagh Joolaee (Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik)
After his already award-winning debut album, Ferne, Iranian kamancheh virtuoso Misagh Joolaee continues his journey discovering new ways of musical expression on his instrument. He presents in his new album „Unknown Nearness“ 12 new compositions for kamancheh solo.
These pieces demonstrate various new kamancheh techniques developed by himself. Some of them among others are Fingertremolo-Flageolett technique, Vortex-like bow technique, and Triol plucking technique. Furthermore, he demonstrates various complicated rhythms with modified accents within each piece.
It goes without saying that the playing techniques he developed on this album are not in themselves the goal of making music. However, they are necessary means for the emergence of new musical expressions. But why should the emergence of new musical paths be important in the first place? In other words, why should an artist want to venture out of his comfort zone, which consists of making use of the settled lore and tradition? The answer to this question is an unspeakable longing for something unknown, which is so close to the artist's soul. The soul wants to touch this unknown nearness.