Album Notes

Who is Dawoud and what is Mystic Jaz?

I am a New York City based sitarist, guitarist, composer, improviser, performer, producer, and poet. I am also the founder and leader of the New Culture; a group who explores and contributes to the living musical entity I call Mystic Jaz.

One of the main projects I devoted myself to is the development of techniques and innovations on sitar, including the incorporation and integration of eastern and western musical techniques; and the development of the sitar synthesizer (synthesizer that is triggered by the sitar). To the best of my knowledge, this is without precedent.

My approach to music employs elements of diverse music from India, Persia, Africa, etc., both modern and ancient, within a context of jazz (especially modal and free), blues, hip hop, and other American forms.

Far from being a mere hybrid of "world" music, Mystic Jaz is a music that produces an enlightening effect upon the mind, body, and spirit of the listener. It is my intention to extrapolate musical directions that have yet to come to pass.

I studied the various effects that the music of many diverse traditions has upon the human mind, body, and spirit. These were then incorporated into a unique form that seeks to forge ahead in the next phases of human culture and spirituality.

Many audiences have attended my performances, and listened to my recordings. All are left with the unmistakable impression that they have participated in a unique musical experience that transcends beyond mere entertainment, into the realm of the spiritual.

I invite you to share my journey...