Beulah Land

Mahmoud Guinia

Magnificent Gnawa music from one of Morocco's foremost practitioners. Characterized by a few key musical phrases repeated over a long period of time, the full individual pieces here are made up of a series of movements or suites which are intended to induce a sort of trance-like state. However effective Mahmoud might be at this, there are a few things that really addict me to this record outside of the aforementioned over-arching appeal. The rhythms on this record stumble over themselves in strange, skipping, psychosomatic patterns which command your attention because of their slightly askew yet mechanically consistent charm. Slightly reminiscent of 'Are You that Somebody' era Timbaland. Just barely out of focus. Or maybe not? It compels you to overindulge. It coaxes you to attempt to decipher it's mysterious spirit-drunk logic until you start to lose your sense of direction. it is screwing with your equilibrium. By the time you've realized you're already past the point of no return. So instead of futilely attempting to struggle your way out, fall forward and cling to the unflinchingly steady, guiding human voice at the epicenter. Mahmoud's chanting, the assertive and soulful current of this stoned and rhythmically decadent stream, is the only way your going to get out of here with your brain in tact. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!