Nizar Rohana Trio - The Mco Session (2025) [Hi-Res]

The MCO Session is an EP from renowned Palestinian oud player and composer Nizar Rohana, marking a vibrant return to the trio format with Tony Overwater (double bass) and Ruven Ruppik (percussion). Captured live, the EP honors tradition while exploring new musical ground, serving both as tribute and renewal.

The four-track release features the brand-new Maria, inspired by Astor Piazzolla, and reimagined versions of Rohana’s earlier works: Emm el Zeinat (from Sard, 2008), and Madar Hijaz and Samai Muhayyar (from Furat, 2016). With deep personal resonance, The MCO Session is dedicated to the memory of former collaborator Matyas Szandai, and signals a fresh artistic direction.

Grounded in Arabic maqam but open to global influences, the trio blends melodic interplay, rhythmic nuance, and quiet virtuosity. The EP bridges classical Arabic forms with subtle nods to Bach, Piazzolla, and jazz, revealing Rohana’s evolving voice—rooted, reflective, and innovative. Each piece is also available as a live filmed session on YouTube, offering an intimate portrait of the ensemble’s chemistry. A full-length album is expected in 2026.

Tracklist:
1-1 Nizar Rohana Trio - Madar Hijaz [5:19]
1-2 Nizar Rohana Trio - Maria [4:41]
1-3 Nizar Rohana Trio - Samai Muhayyar [5:39]
1-4 Nizar Rohana Trio - Emm El Zeinat [6:10]