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Dream Time

Abdullah Ibrahim

Dream Time
Ibrahim’s is an entirely solo venture in which he knits 20 of his compositions together into a single suite, giving a narrative flow analogous to his musical pilgrimage through the various styles...

Dream Time

Abdullah Ibrahim

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Ibrahim’s is an entirely solo venture in which he knits 20 of his compositions together into a single suite, giving a narrative flow analogous to his musical pilgrimage through the various styles...

About

This solo concert from the legendary South African pianist Abdullah Ibrahim, was recorded in March, 2019 in his new homeland of Bavaria. The resultant album 'Dream Time' choreographs this subtly stirring recital and acts as a timelessly beautiful self portrait of the artist.

The performance is calm yet exuding a gripping power. In prelude, soft tones gently reveal the initial melodic content. Motifs emerge in echo, making way for a complete melodic statement refined through minute, unexpected details. The gathering stream flows directly into a single, liberating chord. A second melody follows suit, at once melancholic, morphing to bright lyricism, also settling on an open chord. Yet not an end, but a transition...Abdullah Ibrahim is a master of transition.

Born October 9th, 1934 in Cape Town, South Africa, the iconic pianist soon celebrates 85 years on the planet. A pianist, whom at 85 continues to exhibit an impressive perseverance in performance. In the course of an hour's time, an uninterrupted flow of melody-tonal beauty of a strong spiritual nature. This music towers far above the mere sum of its notes.

Listening to the man in concert is like eavesdropping on his life story. Threads are laid out, some to be revisited, others not...as quietly, almost unconsciously, the lattice entwines the audience, revealing fascinating moments of a life well lived. Moments unhurried, flowing slow and steady sometimes stopping time itself. Such a modus operandi allows for an uncommon intimacy and a veritable archaic freedom from the hecticness of our times. Those who might immerse themselves in Abdullah Ibrahim's music, will encounter an unfiltered tenderness of immense rarity.

Contents and tracklist

Awards and reviews

December 2019

Ibrahim’s is an entirely solo venture in which he knits 20 of his compositions together into a single suite, giving a narrative flow analogous to his musical pilgrimage through the various styles of African-American and his native South American music that have made him what he is.

December 2019

The only way to listen to this album is to sit down and go right through. It’s not full of dazzling technique, but it is truly profound. And every time you hit replay there is more to hear and to appreciate about a great pianist at the top of his game.
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