Barhoum Rizq
Haflet Al Qalaa (The Citadel Concert)
SIDE A
- Mawwal Ala Dalo'na
SIDE B
Label
Layali Al Ghab
Location Issued
Hama, Syria
Artist Origin
Tartous, Syria
More Info
This live recording documents a wedding ceremony performed by the attaba singer from Tartous, Barhoum Rizq. As usual, Barhoum relies on simple musical accompaniment that doesn't distract from his singing and the attaba poetry. Barhoum dedicates most of the first side of the tape to a refined performance of the dal'ona, which represents the only exception in this attaba-packed tape. It is customary in every opportunity available to him, that attaba singer Barhoum Rizq mentions the poet Mousa Francis, who would write attaba verses for him when Rizq didn't write them himself. He believes that the secret behind attaba's resilience as a musical style, its spread, and success lies in the lyrics. Attaba is originally a poetic form, and the skill in crafting meanings, imagery, and vocabulary is what can keep the listener engaged for long hours in each session, especially since the music accompanying attaba is simple and minimalist.