Jazmahalis
Jazmahalis is a band that mixes elements of Persian folk music (mahali) with jazz. We recorded two albums: one of original pop and dance tunes, and another based on the poetry of Nima Ushij and Fereidoon Moshiri.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Hamid and Farhad thought of the name Jazmahalis in the late 1980s. With the addition of bassman Paymon, percussionist Richard, and drummer Mitch the lineup was perfect. Our first album (pop/dance) was easy to record, since we were already tight from playing a lot in clubs. The second album was based on poems by Persian poets Nima and Moshiri, and was altogether different (darker).
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
We used to play live at Kolbeh Maryam and Marrakech restaurants in San Diego in the 1990s.
Your musical influences
Beatles, Googoosh, Genesis, Dariush, John McLaughlin and Jazz.
What equipment do you use?
guitar & guitar synthesizer, bass guitar, drums, Persian drums (tombak, daf), keyboards, vocals.
Anything else?
Jazmahalis effectively merged with (Persian traditional) to create (Persian jam). Check out all three on Soundclick.
