Kazakhstan: The Kobyz, the Ancient Viol of the Shamans

Personnel: Samgul Umbetbaev; Saian Aqmolda.
The kobyz is an upright violin (a viol) traditionally used by Kazakh shamans. The instrument shares similarities with the Armenian kamantcha and the Chinese ehru, although it has a lower register and a grainier sound (mostly due to the fact that its two strings are made of woven horse hairs). This album, recorded in a Kazakh studio in 2003, brings together two generations of kobyz players. Smagul Umbetbaev is a master. A veteran player and engaging singer, and once a shaman himself, he delivers ten pieces here, mostly traditional pieces and compositions by Ykhlas Dukenov, the most famous Kazakh kobyz player. His set is rich in feeling and his melodies are haunting. His virtuosity and warmth inhabit the music, transcending the plaintive tone of the instrument. The yearning melody of "Qazan" provides a moving highlight. His 35-minute set is followed by a 20-minute set by his disciple Saian Aqmolda, 29 years old when the recording was made. His playing is somewhat rougher, more impetuous, simple and confrontational. Some melodies show a lot of talent ("Zholaushynyn Qonyr Kuï," in particular), but Umbetbaev's performance is really what should be bringing you to this album. ~ François Couture