Introducing
The Songs of Hafiz
a new CD by James R. Newell

"[James R. Newell's] ...musical inventiveness is graceful and inspired. He enters into the seriousness of Sufi spirituality, bringing with him an undeniably American directness that gives up none of its own individuality. If you know the Persian originals, you will recognize these, with a sense of aesthetic shock, as quintessential and beautiful. If you hear them for the first time in English, you will hear a damn good song." 
Carl W. Ernst
Author, The Shambhala Guide to Sufism
(Click here to read the entire article.)

Blue Sadhana presents a unique collection of songs in the World/Folk style, featuring talented singer songwriter James R. Newell. James has skillfully adapted the lyric poetry of 14th century Persian Sufi Poet Hafiz of Shiraz to American folk music idioms. He has created an eclectic blend of world and folk melodies which effectively make available the classic beauty of Hafiz's lyrics to the modern, English speaking listener. In particular, his feel for American blues music evokes the ambiance of the traditional Sufi tavern, adding a sense of mystery to the classic Persian themes of lover and beloved, the wine of Divine intoxication, and the torturous path of love. 

James R. Newell is an accomplished musician, performer, and blues singer who has appeared with many of the all-time great blues artists including John Lee Hooker, Jr. Wells, the Fabulous Thunderbirds and original Kansas City blues shouter 'Big' Joe Turner. James' treatment of the poetry of Hafiz brings a solid barroom feel to the Sufi tavern of the great Persian poet. But don't take our word for it, enter the tavern and find out for yourself by clicking on one of the sound files below.

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