Search - Abdullah Ibrahim :: Desert Flowers

This reissue of a 1992 release is obviously a paen to Abdullah's native South Africa, post-apartheid. But instead of the township rhythms that have characterized his work in the past, this record is very meditative, even when he moves from piano to synthesizer, as on "The Praise Song" and "Mizu/Water." There are allusions to Thelonious Monk in some of the jagged edges (although considerably smoothed down), and a soft version of "Come Sunday" by Ibrahim's mentor, Duke Ellington, whose spirit seems to inform this. Like looking over the veldt as dusk falls, it inspires reflection and some awe at the quiet mastery. And on the two songs here (sung by Ibrahim), it's apparent that he's a lyricist of some distinction. Maybe not his best, but still lovely. --Chris Nickson