Jerusalem-born composer and singer Ayelet Rose Gottlieb worked for more than two years on the songs that make up her recently released new album, Roadsides (Arogole Music). Sounds of the Middle East are a strong influence in these languid, enticing tunes. “These songs extend out of my love for poetry and the Hebrew language,” Gottlieb explains (ayeletrose.com). Works by both Israeli and Palestinian poets were adapted for Roadsides. “I felt I wanted to include Palestinian voices as well, voices that are an essential part of the tapestry of the country.” One highlight of this beautiful album is Gottlieb’s duet with celebrated jazz pianist Anat Fort on “Letter,” which is sung in Hebrew. — M.S.
(American Jewish World, 11.7.14)
