Qalandar Black Rose: Sufi Trance Music is
Klaus Wiese's best CD. That says quite a lot considering that he is extremely prolific, with over 30 albums in his discography. This is a collaboration with
Saam Schlamminger. It is their expression of the spirit of the Qalandar, a freewheeling sect of Sufis. They have no ties to any of the other sects and they do not follow the traditional rules and tenets of Sufism. The music reflects their loose style. It is dark and ominous with a strong sense of foreboding.
Wiese's sound design incorporates powerful overtone elements. The liner notes list only acoustic instruments, so the recording techniques create the atmospheres. The deep drone has a strong personality.
Wiese and
Schlamminger have keen senses and deep spiritual beliefs. The soundscape includes Sufi
poetry and a unique dervish prayer. The dervishes pray by altering their breathing patterns. This disc will appeal to fans of
Mathias Grassow,
Deuter,
Jonathan Goldman, and
Anugama. ~ Jim Brenholts, All Music Guide
