ABOUT THE ALBUM

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Optimistic View, Hagiga’s second album, expanded the original quintet into a sextet with the addition of pianist Omri Mor. The music moves freely between contemporary jazz, Middle Eastern and North African colors, funk and other rhythmic influences, while keeping improvisation at the center. Amos Hoffman’s guitar and oud add another distinctive layer, especially on “Zambura,” while pieces such as “Mystic Seven” explore odd meters and open harmonic spaces. The album marked an important development in Hagiga’s sound, combining detailed composition and arranging with the spontaneity and interaction that would remain central to the band.