I CARE IF YOU LISTEN: New Amsterdam Records and Le Poisson Rouge Celebrate 10th Anniversary
I CARE IF YOU LISTEN: New Amsterdam Records and Le Poisson Rouge Celebrate 10th Anniversary
BY LANA NORRIS
"Arooj Aftab’s refashioned Southeast Asian and classical Pakistani styles were the perfect opening after a panel about history, progression, and nostalgia. Aftab layers intricate vocals over subtle electronic manipulations, jazz references, and heritage influence to create a tangible atmosphere of invitation and mystery. At one moment, she utilized simple, spacious piano filled by a motif of nearly aggressive glissandos from the harp and an eventual carillon of bell notes; later, the harp finished what Aftab’s voice began and submerged the audience in understated undulations. She sang only in Sufi, barely spoke with the audience, and maintained a peaceful intrigue; she held the stage and shifted the atmosphere."