Project Masnavi

Released May 7, 2021

Project Masnavi is the anticipated third album from acclaimed Persian-jazz group, Eishan Ensemble. Inspired by the lyrical poetry of Rumi’s epic masterpiece, Masnavi - one of the most precious books in Persian literature, the album weaves beautiful imagery and stories reflective on Rumi’s work into layered soundscapes and sophisticated compositions. The album showcases the increasingly ambitious compositions of bandleader, composer and tar player, Iranian-born Hamed Sadeghi, alongside saxophonist Michael Avgenicos, guitarist Pedram Layegh, percussionist Adem Yilmaz, bassist Maximillian Alduca and special guests, accordion player Marcello Maio and drummer Alex Inman-Hislop.

Rumi has been the source of countless artistic interpretations. This project is unique in its nuanced exploration of the possibilities presented by Rumi. “Rumi’s quote, “the garden of the world has no limits, except in your mind,” resonated with me,” explains Sadeghi. “I felt compelled to explore it further. For Project Masnavi, I wanted to introduce new sounds and textures. Deep down I wanted to surprise and challenge myself musically just as COVID-19 surprised us all.” Sadeghi invited two leading emerging figures from the Sydney jazz scene to expand the sonic palette of the ensembl,  accordionist Marcello Maio and drummer Alex Inman-Hislop. 

Sadeghi reflects that the accordion instrument, in particular, had a dramatic effect on him: “The compression and expansion of the bellows reminded me of a heart beat. Also the flow, perhaps even the love element, as described by Rumi. Its reedy yet romantic sound brought a bitter-sweet feeling to the album, something that resonated with the melancholic state we were all feeling.” Also an instrument common in north-western Iran and Azeri folk music, the accordion provided feelings of nostalgia for Sadeghi. The combination of tar with accordion created sounds reminiscent of his home country, and a sense of homecoming. This juxtaposition of ancient with the contemporary is key to the ensemble’s modus operandi. The forging of new identities with the addition of saxophone, bass and drum kit has, in Sadeghi’s mind, helped create their distinct musical identity - “This excites me!” Sadeghi claims.