Arooj Aftab, Shahzad Ismaily and Vijay Iyer – Love In Exile (Verve Records, 2023)
Love in Exile by Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer, and Shahzad Ismaily is a stunning example of modern musical styles that showcases the trio’s exceptional talent and skill.
This beautifully crafted ambient album is calming and exciting, with elements of jazz, soft piano, and Arooj Aftab’s divine voice. Her collaboration with progressive jazz pianist Vijay Iyer and multi-instrumentalist Shahzad Ismaily delivers a timeless, spacey album that sounds like nothing you’ve heard before.
Combining Ismaily’s bass and drones with Iyer’s piano creates a diverse and complex musical texture in the Sufi style. As you listen to the music, you’ll notice new subtle details and layers each time. Aftab’s vocals integrate smoothly with the melody, enhancing its richness and intensity.
The musical harmony of the trio is genuinely remarkable. The execution of every performance aspect in “Love In Exile” is flawless, from the gradual evolution of the opening synthesizers to the twisted and mutating loop. I am thoroughly impressed by their talent and expertise. The musical harmony of the trio is undoubtedly impressive. I am amazed by the flawless execution of every aspect of their performance in “Love In Exile”, from the gradual evolution of the opening synthesizers to the twisted and mutating loop. Aftab’s voice adds to the emotional tone of the entire album. Arooj, Vijay and Shahzad play together seamlessly, achieving a perfect balance of harmony and conflict, intricate rhythms, and soaring melodies.
Expressly, Love in Exile is an exceptional album that takes listeners on a sublime journey, with each note and phrase thoughtfully crafted. Arooj Aftab’s outstanding vocals, accompanied by Iyer and Ismaily, emphasize the power of silence, enhancing the emotional intensity of the music. It’s worth repeating many times, as it reveals new layers of beauty and complexity with each play, surpassing anything created in recent times and taking listeners to the uncharted territory at the edge of the outer limits.
Love in Exile is a superb album showcasing three exceptional musicians’ talents. The seven jazz tracks are magnificent, with a fusion of Eastern and Western influences. This album is a true gem in the world of jazz music.
Buy Love in Exile.