“‘Bejamalen’ proves that centuries-old Sufi poetry can still feel alive when timeless devotion meets inspired contemporary musicianship.”
Afaq Art Production’s “Bejamalen” (With Beauty) is more than a musical release. It is a carefully crafted artistic statement that brings together poetry, faith, and orchestral expression in a way that feels respectful to tradition while remaining inviting to modern audiences. Built around a Sufi qasida written and composed by Sheikh Abd Al-Ghani Al-Umari Al-Hasani, the work explores divine love, spiritual awareness, and the pursuit of deeper understanding before closing with heartfelt praise of the Prophet Muhammad. These themes have long been central to classical Arabic spiritual literature, yet the presentation here feels fresh rather than distant. The performance by Egyptian vocalist Ziad Kamal gives the composition both grace and sincerity. His voice carries the emotional weight of the poetry with remarkable control, allowing every phrase to breathe naturally instead of rushing through the lyrics. It is clear that his background in Arabic maqams and traditional instruments has shaped a performance that values expression as much as technical precision. Rather than treating the piece as a historical document, he delivers it as something living and deeply personal.
The arrangement by Maestro George Kolta is one of the strongest aspects of “Bejamalen.” Instead of placing Eastern and Western musical traditions in opposition, the composition allows them to complement one another. Classical orchestral textures, Arabic instrumentation, and rich ensemble performances move together with confidence, creating a sound that feels cinematic without overshadowing the spiritual message at the heart of the work. Every section is thoughtfully balanced, allowing quiet moments to carry just as much emotional power as the larger orchestral passages. The production remains elegant throughout, with clear sound engineering and mixing that give each instrument space while preserving the warmth of the live performance. The result is music that feels expansive yet intimate. The accompanying visual production strengthens this experience by matching the music with imagery that reflects its sense of beauty, contemplation, and devotion. Nothing feels excessive or forced. Every creative decision appears to serve the meaning of the composition rather than simply adding spectacle.
What makes “Bejamalen” especially meaningful is its commitment to presenting Arabic musical heritage with confidence and artistic ambition. Afaq Art Production continues its mission of celebrating authentic Arabic music while embracing contemporary production values that can connect with listeners beyond the Arab world. The collaboration between Sheikh Abd Al-Ghani Al-Umari Al-Hasani, Ziad Kamal, Maestro George Kolta, Syncop Orchestra, and the wider production team demonstrates how scholarship, musical excellence, and spiritual inspiration can come together in a single work. Rather than relying on nostalgia, “Bejamalen” reminds listeners that traditional forms still have the power to move people when performed with honesty and care. It is a release that encourages quiet reflection while showcasing the richness of Arabic musical culture. In a time when much popular music is built around speed and instant impact, “Bejamalen” offers something lasting—a thoughtful, beautifully performed composition that invites listeners to slow down, listen closely, and appreciate the enduring beauty of authentic artistic expression.
English