Hamed Sadeghi – Empty Voices (self-release, 2024)
Empty Voices, composed and arranged by Persian Australian tar (long-necked lute) virtuoso Hamed Sadeghi, features a seven-piece ensemble that cleverly intertwines Persian classical music with Western contemporary styles. The ensemble includes notable Australian jazz musicians such as Sandy Evans (soprano/tenor saxophone), Lloyd Swanton (double bass), and Paul Cutlan (bass clarinet), alongside emerging talents Michael Avgenicos (alto saxophone), Tom Avgenicos (trumpet), and Adem Yilmaz (percussion). The combination of horns, percussion, double bass, and tar produces a balanced fusion of world music, contemporary jazz, and chamber music.
The album emphasizes skillful improvisation, lavish ornamentation, and emotional depth. Supported by the Australia Council, Create NSW, and the APRA Art Music Fund, the project premiered at the 2023 Sydney Festival and evolved through performances at the Sydney Opera House, Melbourne International Jazz Festival, and Brisbane International Jazz Festival.
Sadeghi will launch a 20-concert tour across Australia and Europe from September to November 2024, with performances at the Perth International Jazz Festival, Brisbane Festival, and London Jazz Festival.
Notably, Sadeghi has received two ARIA Award (top Australian music industry award) nominations and finalist positions at the Art Music Awards.
Musicians: Hamed Sadeghi on Persian tar; Sandy Evans on soprano and tenor saxophone; Paul Cutlan on bass clarinet; Lloyd Swanton on double bass; Michael Avgenicos on alto saxophone; Thomas Avgenicos on trumpet; and Adem Yilmaz on percussion.
Buy Empty Voices.
Author: Tyler Bennet
