Amos Hoffman: Evolution

For Israeli guitarist/oudist Amos Hoffman, the appropriately named Evolution is a heady, spice-filled caravan voyage through Middle Eastern and jazz stylings. The sound is both eternal and ever-changing, as strings and flute rooted in folk traditions are combined with a touch of African rhythm and a postmodern sensibility. Just when a track seems to settle into one pathway, Hoffman surprises, moving in another direction as in the fluid “Silence,” where Ilan Salem’s flute unwinds like a string, offering a tenuous guide into the maze.

Originally Published August 1, 2008