by Sean Westergaard
Queen's Dominion is the solo debut from Pharaoh's Daughter leader Basya Schechter. Almost entirely instrumental, this album is also somewhat more stripped down instrumentally than that band, with a core group of oud, santur, violin and percussion with guests on some tracks. The sound of this ensemble is a delight. The pairing of oud and santur is an exquisite combination and the more sustained tones of the violin are a perfect complement. The playing is excellent. This is the type of album where there are no real highlights as each piece is beautiful and sublime. Anyone interested in the music of the Middle East should seek this out. Recommended.