Ibrahim Maalouf - Illusions (2013)

As in his four previous albums or in the different musical pieces he has composed over the last ten years, Illusions is the fruit of a long mediatation lasting several years around a theme close to his heart: the illusory or true way we look at things. This album was recorded for the first time with members of the group he has been playing with since his first album. Illusions is also a concept album in which Ibrahim decides to have fun, without lingering too long on the feel-good notes, but rather by juggling with the reassuring ones to put them in jeopardy. Illusions is intended to be more fun, more open and less jazzy than his previous work Wind, with a musical colouring that approaches rock or even funk. Illusions is intended to bring people together because it was written for a wider audience. And as always, Ibrahim's signature subtle mix of eastern and western influences permeates the melodies of this composition.

Tracklist:

1 Illusions
2 Conspiracy Generation
3 InPRESSI
4 Nomade Slang
5 Bussy
6 If You Wanna Be A Woman
7 Unfaithful
8 True Sorry
9 Illusion

Personnel:

Ibrahim Maalouf - trumpet, compositions
Yann Martin - lead trumpet
Youenn Le Cam - 1/4 tone trumpet, flute, bagpipe
Martin Saccardy - trumpet
François Delporte - electric guitar
Laurent David - electric bass
Frank Woeste - keyboard (Fender Rhodes)
Xavier Rogé - drums