Master Musicians of Joujouka
Morocco's legendary trance music
"Boujeloud" reviewed in The Wire
from The Wire (review not available online)
Master Musicians of Joujouka Boujeloud (Sub Rosa. CD)
Within the recording’s documentary aesthetic, the pieces played on liras (small bamboo flutes) struggle to assert themselves against the relentless drubbing of skin drums. Those played on the raita though have that unmistakable tight reedy buzz, so nagging and impossible to ignore, and as unearthly and modern as the average synth pre-set. The parts are seemingly simple and repetitive, but the precise inflections of each draw you in, varying more the harder you listen, and Boujeloud is another reminder of why Joujouka has fascinated those interested in drone, rock and trance. SAM DAVIES