After The Last Sky (2025)

"Brahem continues his exploration of Arabic maqams, but with his three colleagues for this journey also delves deeper into Western classical music and jazz improvisation. If the music is in danger of falling into a chamber ensemble, this is cleverly avoided by use of powerful rhythmic motifs, often provided by bassist, Dave Holland. The lower register string instruments of the cello and double bass are beautifully utilised, with Lechner and Holland both displaying virtuoso techniques with strong and vibrant voices. In writing for this new ensemble, Brahem has not sought to dominate, and instead has created pieces that allow all four musicians to create freely within the confines of his written compositions. A new group and sound to explore for Brahem, as this is the first time he has featured the cello in one of his ensembles, and most agreeable it is too. It is also arguable that "After The Last Sky" is also the more satisfying and complete set, as fine as "Blue Maqams" is." (Jazz Views)