The Sufi Records is a label on a mission to breathe new life into a sacred tradition. Their name comes from the religious practice of Sufism, the mystical expression of the Islamic faith. The label was created to share the Sufi experience through the work of practicing poets and musicians.
For centuries, Sufi writers have penned spiritual poems called ‘Kalams’. These are holy works that tell of man’s relationship with the divine. Throughout history, these Kalams have been set to music. It is a powerful and beloved artform. The Sufi Records are preserving the tradition.
“Rubaru (Orchestral Qawwali)” is the latest release from The Sufi Records. The piece is a collaboration between vocalist Abi Sampa and composer Rushil. They are accompanied by the masterful Amrit Dhuffer on tabla and Manchester UK’s Northern Film Orchestra, conducted by Melvin Tay.
Over the course of twelve minutes, the song builds from a subdued and melancholy intro to a joyous spiritual celebration. The orchestra is equally adept at both quiet contemplation and religious exaltation. There are virtuosic performances all around. Dhuffer and Sampa’s syncopated percussion and vocal breaks alone are worth the price of admission.
Abi Sampa is a well known London vocalist and multi-instrumentalist who caught the public eye in 2013 when she appeared on the UK version of The Voice. Here, she is mesmerizing. The kalam which beats at the heart of the composition was written by beloved US-based Sufi master, poet and meditation expert, Waqar Faiz. Abi and Rushil have created a transcendent composition, worthy of Faiz’s work.
Watch the full “Rubaru (Orchestral Qawwali)” video below. Follow the links below the video to connect with The Sufi Records. Get on their profiles and stay in the loop on all of the music to come from this exciting new label.
