The Al Andaluz Project is a multicultural fusion experiment that combines two European folk and early music bands who share a common interest. L'Ham de Foc are from Valencia in Spain, where they have specialised in reviving the music of the Jews who flourished in Spain under Moorish rule until the end of the 15th century, when they were expelled by Christians. Estampie, from Germany, are medieval revivalists also fascinated by the music of that era. Both are known for their powerful vocalists, and in this project L'Ham de Foc's Mara Aranda and Estampie's Sigi Hausen are joined by a third female singer with a fine, clear style, Iman Kandoussi from Morocco. The result mixes Sephardic Jewish, Christian and Arabic styles, with the three singers all handling lead vocals and adding harmonies, against a lush backing that includes Middle Eastern instruments such as the saz and qanun, and hand-percussion such as the Indian tabla. The playing is sturdy rather than emotional, but there are some powerful fusions, with North African-influenced backing on the Sephardic Yo Me Levantaria, or the Christian Quen a Omagen da Virgen. From: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2010/aug/12/al-andaluz-project-cd-review
