An Album a Day #2026-08

Notes

Today's album from Israeli multi-instrumentalist Eyal Talmudi is another entry in the meditative music space, similar to Mahku from yesterday. Mahku came sold as "spiritual jazz," a label that didn't quite fit. Sonolodge III is listed as "worldwide," and while that label might fit by definition (what music isn't worldwide?), I think "spiritual jazz" might actually be more accurate.

From the moment I heard Eyal's nasal, spittle-soaked tenor sax, which sits just under an airy vocal track in the opening song "A Tale About a Shadow," I knew I was in for a treat. I was certain an electronic drumbeat would drop at some point, but the song breathes and crescendoes without any percussion.

All of the music is eastern sounding, with a wonderful, eclectic mix of tones and textures. One of my favorites, "Kshana," is rooted in a tense synth pad interrupted by a finger held loosely over a piano string so that striking the key produces a short, muted overtone. On top floats a winding duet of clarinet and ney, a wooden flute with ancient origins. According to Wikipedia, it's been in use for over 4,500 years, making it one of the oldest instruments still in use. (The oldest, of course, is the earth-flute, i.e. a cave resonating in the wind.)

If you only have time for one song, listen to "Rega 23." It sounds like a desert sunrise and would pair well with a strong cup of Turkish coffee.

Listen

What is "An Album a Day"?

Each day in 2026, I'm listening to an album that:

1. I've never heard before
2. Was released in the last six months (from the time of listening).