2006/06/14

Reza Derakshani + John Densmore

John Densmore and Reza Derakshani, created by Mental Whir
The Kennedy Center presents former Doors' drummer John Densmore and master Persian musician Reza Derakshani for a musical collaboration that is at once haunting and spiritual, driving and hypnotic.

They call their efforts Peaceful Sounds from the Axis of Evil because, as John says, "This as a beautiful hybrid between two countries that are turning more and more bellicose." John explains, We‚'re not politicians, but I wanted Americans to see the face and hear the sounds of the Iranian people... Music is non-verbal. It's direct and right to the heart and we can commiserate through our thoughts and emotions."

With mutual respect and appreciation born of a chance meeting and impromptu jam, the two have produced Ray of the Wine (hyperlink includes audio samples), an album of Reza's songs which John has arranged and produced, combining classic Persian sounds with Jazz, Rock, and Folk.

In addition to music from the album, Reza will recite Rumi, while John will read from selected Iranian blogs in an evening that will start in meditation and end with dancing.

Video: watch in Quicktime format with broadband or dial-up

CLICK HERE to listen to Reza Derakshani and John Densmore perform on the Millennium Stage.

Program:
  • Wild Hair
  • Ray of the Wine
  • Zhaleh
  • I'm Back
  • Masnavi
  • Heart of Fire
  • Hey You the Painter
  • How Would I Know
Performers: Tour: "Peaceful Sounds From the Axis of Evil"
    June 14, 2006, in Washington: Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage
    June 16, 2006 in Toronto: Lula Lounge
    June 17, 2006 in Montreal: Theatre Le National
Discography:
Ray of Wine (2005)

Official website: Hen House Studios

Thanks to: Harlan Steinberger of Hen House Studios

June 14, 2006 (Wednesday) 6:00-7:00 p.m. on the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage

** co-marketed by David Chambers

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