The British-Bahraini trumpeter and composer Yazz Ahmed blurs the lines between jazz and electronic sound design with her music. For her fourth studio album A Paradise in the Hold, Ahmed drew inspiration from Bahraini folk music: from the melancholic songs of pearl divers to the festive sounds of female drumming groups traditionally heard at weddings and festivals.

During an in-depth journey, Ahmed collected poetry, songs, and sounds. This material formed the foundation of the album, where vocals play a prominent role thanks to contributions from vocalists Brigitte Beraha, Natacha Atlas, Randolph Matthews, and Alba Nacinovic. Together with her Hafla band, consisting of Ralph Wyld (vibraphone), Dave Manington (bass), and Josh Blackmore (drums), she presents a musical universe that enchants and challenges.

“Some of her most expansive and exciting music to date.” – Jazzwise

“A Paradise in the Hold is a masterpiece, a work of tremendous sensitivity and creative insight brought to life by a musical visionary capable of advancing and remaking 21st-century jazz.” – allmusic

Yazz Ahmed trumpet/flugelhorn, Ralph Wyld vibraphone, Dave Manington bass, Josh Blackmore drums