Although we loved Raz’s first two records with ROIR, this is by far his finest record to date (as Badawi or under any other moniker). On “Soldier Of Midian” Raz samples his own live playing (from Flute to Bendir to Zarb) and agitates the mix with the use of subtle electronic effects. Heavy with Middle-Eastern percussion and a mesmerizing beat, it quickens the pulse and physically unnerves the listener. The pulsating rhythms are aggressive and unyielding, bordering on a hard-core drum record. Badawi’s ability to capture a mood and control it, to force his will upon the listener, this is what makes “Soldier Of Midian” so compelling.
