lockdown : vinyl find #29.

Unusual writings (meaning non-latin letters) always raise my interest. First of all, there's an aesthetic interest. But also, it's the promise of unusual sounds, different ways of playing music, and of course, of another language. 

From time to time, I come across an Israeli record and every single time, I wan't to know more. Which is highly difficult, as very often, there's not a single latin sign to relate to. It's like holding a Thai record in your hands. You'll have no clue... In the best cases, a turntable nearby will help you making your mind on whether or not you would buy it. If not, well... the inability to type Hebrew letters will let you helpless in front of your Discogs or YouTube apps. In the case of this record by Lehakat Tzililey Ha'oud, the name of the band is translated into latin letters, so it helped. 

Inherited from the Jewish diaspora, the Jewish-Yemenite music is very popular in Israel, and was blended with other genres, like Greek, Lebanese, and Mizrahi (Eastern) music. This point is already interesting enough to raise one's curiosity. 

What I liked about this record, first, was... the cover. It's already a blend, mixing traditional and modern elements : nargilehs, a traditional instrument, an electric guitar, guys snapping their fingers, gangster-looking sunglasses and 1970's haircuts. The cover alone is already an invitation to a journey... 

Listening to the record, all promises are fulfilled. Vocals are dope, and although I'm completely unable to understand a word of what they sing, I can enjoy the dynamics, melodies and bold arrangements. 

Fast strings, 

Lehakat Tzliley Ha'oud - Record n° 2.

Couldn't find an audio clip, so you'll have to trust me on this one...