By the middle of the 20th century, American immigrants from Middle East - Armenians, Arabs, Greeks - fused old world melodies, oriental rhythyms, and quarter-tone scales with main stream jazz, blues, and swing. East met west resulting in a powerful, hypnotic sound that was truly unique and utterly irresistable. Dance halls, night clubs, jukeboxes, and even the radio waves were all alive with the new KEF sound.
It is in this tradition that Michael, Haig, David, Sevan, & Christopher proudly introduce their debut album. TRADITIONS is a compliation of 14 exciting Armenian, Greek, & Arabic tracks recorded at two of Manhattan's premier studios in the spring of 2003. The pumping dumbeg and guitar rhythms, soaring violin, thick oud leads, kanoun harmonies, and powerful vocals all melt together to create an amazing KEF experience. The unique cover art was created by the talented Armenian illustrator/artist Nishan Akgulian.
