"Working with Kronos [America's premier new music quartet], I realized that through music you can cross not only boundaries between different regions of Afghanistan, but even bigger boundaries, such as between East and West," reveals Homayun Sakhi. "When we play together, the music really connects well and we all get a lot of pleasure from it."

A bold collaboration between America's premier new music quartet, Azerbaijan's best-loved traditional singer, and the leading Afghan rubâb player of his generation. Featured works include Homayun Sakhi's luminous "Rainbow," for string quartet, rubâb, tabla, and Central Asian percussion, and spirited arrangements of Azerbaijani songs performed by Kronos Quartet and the Alim Qasimov Ensemble. A bonus DVD documents the creative process of the collaboration between Kronos Quartet and renowned Azerbaijani vocalist Alim Qasimov and his ensemble, and with Afghan rubâb virtuoso Homayun Sakhi. 6 Tracks, 66 Minutes, 44-pg Booklet, photos; DVD contains series introduction, 24-minute film, interactive glossary, and map.

The Music of Central Asia Series is a co-production of the Aga Khan Music Initiative and Smithsonian Folkways Recordings. The aim of the series is to present leading exponents of Central Asia's rich and diverse musical heritage to listeners outside the region.

FREE DOWNLOAD
Please enjoy a free download of "Leyla" by Kronos Quartet and Alim Qasimov Ensemble

RELATED VIDEOS
Watch a 7 minute excerpt from the documentary film included in DVD
Watch an overview of the Music of Central Asia and Aga Khan Music Initiative

Track Listing