Simon Leleux - Letter to Levent '2021

Tracks list

A Letter to Levent is Simon Leleux’s first solo album. It marks a
significant milestone in his study of the doholla, a bass darbuka originating
from Egypt.

This work is dedicated to Levent Yildirim, pioneer in this instrument modern
techniques. It is also a heartfelt tribute to the student-master relationship
and transfer of knowledge; when the teachings go beyond mastering an instrument
but also become stepping stones to life choices, a philosophy or an artistic
identity…
Improvisation is omnipresent throughout, emphasizing minimalist, spontaneous,
intimate and direct pieces.

In this album, the doholla is displayed free from its traditional context. Simon
Leleux has a broad approach, driven by human encounters that inspired him
through their music and stories. The identity and cultures related questions are
key. If the darbuka has typical arabic overtones, the tombak is instantly
associated with persian culture, the Tabla with India, the djembe with Africa or
the congas with Cuba…. Here, the doholla creates bridges between far apart
colours, draped with an ungraspable and mysterious vibe.

Mirroring this concept, Simon Leleux does not try to convey or channel a unique
repertoire and genre. He’s freed himself from any role imposed on him by
a certain music tradition or ideological straightjacket. The confluence of
varied cultures enriches his work contemporary approach.

Tracklist:
1 01. Simon Leleux - Saturne (01:55)
1 02. Simon Leleux - Syzygy (05:22)
1 03. Simon Leleux - Seven (02:53)
1 04. Simon Leleux - Shadows (02:51)
1 05. Simon Leleux - Exception (03:05)
1 06. Simon Leleux - Lost in Space (08:25)
1 07. Simon Leleux - The Rambler (02:16)
1 08. Simon Leleux - Origins (02:34)
1 09. Simon Leleux - The Search (05:21)

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