Classical/Review Afaq Art Production & Distribution - Bejamalen (With Beauty)
Afaq Art Production & Distribution is an Egyptian record label founded in 2021, specialising in musical works that blend the authenticity of Arabic music with a contemporary artistic vision, driven by the belief that music is a universal language capable of connecting cultures. The company released its debut work, "Althulathia" (The Trilogy), in 2023.
“Bejamalen (With Beauty)” by Afaq Art Production & Distribution is a striking example of how traditional spiritual music can be reimagined within a contemporary sonic framework without losing its essence. Rooted in the Sufi qasida tradition and written by Sheikh Abd Al-Ghani Al-Umari Al-Hasani, the piece unfolds as both a devotional offering and a meditative journey through themes of divine love, inner witnessing, and sacred praise.
At the center of the recording is the voice of Ziad Kamal, whose performance carries both technical precision and emotional sincerity. His background in Eastern maqams is evident in the fluidity of his phrasing, while his vocal tone balances reverence with expressive clarity. There’s a sense that each note is carefully placed, yet never rigid—allowing the spiritual text to resonate naturally.
The orchestral arrangement, led by George Kolta, is one of the track’s defining strengths. Drawing from both classical and Arabic traditions, it creates a rich, layered soundscape where strings, traditional instruments, and ensemble textures coexist seamlessly. This fusion gives the piece a cinematic quality while maintaining its devotional core. The production, shaped further by George Yacoub and director Sherif Wahba, feels polished yet respectful of the material’s spiritual gravity.
What makes “Bejamalen” particularly compelling is its ability to bridge worlds. It speaks to listeners familiar with Sufi traditions while remaining accessible to a broader, global audience. The closing praise of the Prophet Muhammad arrives not as a dramatic climax, but as a natural, heartfelt resolution.
Ultimately, “Bejamalen (With Beauty)” is a deeply considered work—one that honors its roots while embracing a modern, cross-cultural musical language.