sublime
When this came on our local alternative station, WCBE, my ears perked straight up. What is THAT? I had never heard anything quite like it. I couldn't tell whether it was Arabic or Jewish (hallelujah and amen) and I had to dance while it was on, no question, in the midst of cleaning my kitchen. My pet cats and birds wondered what the deal was. When it was over I couldn't wait to hear what it was....Pharoah's Daughter? great name but still no clue, Arabic or Jewish, what's going on, is the Messiah here already? definitely overdue. So now I've found it on Amazon and I'm thrilled not just to be able to order this but to know so many other people are as blown away as I am. May the Middle East get it together the way this music does.

The best album I've heard in a very long time. Literally Grammy material
This is the best album I've heard in a very long time. Despite its being a jewish album recorded in several languages, it will appeal to people of standard tastes. It is very hard to describe, as it is almost a new genre. Middle eastern world music with a jam band feel and the precision of classical? Neo-classical jewish middle eastern/latin fem psychedelic jazz? middle eastern rock/psychedelic spiritual jam band music performed by obsessive compulsive classically trained gypsies? I don't know what to call it, and neither will you. But you will love it.
If it were in english, it would be nominated for a grammy.

instantly rewarding
Heard this outfit playing selections from Haran live on John Diliberto's Echoes as I drove home late last night. One of those groups whose sound makes an immediate great impression.

Superb!
This highly anticipated release lives every bit up to expectations, and then some. With help from producer Fred Rubens, the album showcases the band's signature innovative Middle Eastern sound with modern-day grit and attitude. To be sure, the force of this album rests firmly on the foundation of Shechter's exquisite compositions. Still, it is the incredible musicianship of the band that makes this nothing short of a masterpiece. In addition to the earnest vocals of leader Basya Schechter and her oud and saz playing, the album features stellar performances by core band members playing violin, bass, organ, recorders, accordian, drums, and percussion. Topping it all off are exciting guest performances including Alan Kushan on santur, Adam Levy (of Norah Jones' band) on guitar, and others. This music is exquisite but edgy, authentic but contemporary, and absolutely infectious. This is World Music at its best--intricate and nuanced, but utterly accessible, blending swirling, syncopated seas of polyrhythm with beautiful, singable melodies. Pharaoh's Daughter's scope may be compared to that of Béla Fleck, who also draws from a wide array of musical traditions and sounds. However, while Fleck's combinations can sometimes sound forced, these always seem to work perfectly. Highlights include a Celtic-infused "Kah Ribon" with santur, Jason Lindner's psychedelic organ over Schecter's oud on "By Way of Haran," Levy's haunting guitar on the gripping "Hagar," and the rich, sensuous violin of Meg Okura on "Samai."