Another day, another exquisite Staubgold release, this time by the Argentinian multi-instrumentalist Alejandro Franov. Khali is Franov’s 6th solo album although we only know 1 because his previous albums were released only in South America and Japan. He was brought to worldwide fame with his collaborations with singer/songwriter Juana Molina. Khali is a pretty dense and emotional instrumental album composed using three “exotic” instruments the african mbira, the paraguayan harp arpa and the indian sitar as well as some touches of electronics and vocal talents on some songs. The 35 year old musician also has a rich roster of collaborations with artists like Kama Aina & Seiichi Yamamoto.

Rooted in traditional African and Arabic music albeit very calm and lyrical as opposed to the common dancefloor sense, Khali is rhythmic and full of melodies, yet it might take a few tries to get into the more exotic stuff with complex layers, dissonance and rhythms in odd measures, especially if you’re new to Non-western concepts of harmony.

Alejandro Franov – Micerino Tema
Alejandro Franov – Shumba