Museum Musica

Iran, 2010, Persian pop / psychedelic pop / psychedelic rock

Various Artists – Pomegranates: Persian Pop, Funk, Folk and Psych of the 60s and 70s: گوش Googoosh factors heavily on this compilation, and I’m going to be looking into more of her stuff. As it reads on the tin, this is a small collection of music from the 60s and 70s in Iran, that is, music before the Islamic Revolution of 1979. A lot of Westerners have a certain image of Iran, but it was a completely different country back in the time this music was made, and I can’t help but wonder how it would’ve continued to develop had it not been trampled by the oppressive adherents of an intolerant religion. I’m woefully ignorant of Persian pop, and I’ve only heard a bit of Persian classical music (which I adore). The music on this compilation is clearly a blend of Western pop sensibilities with Persian instruments and expressions. This is more authentic than a co-opted sitar, especially with the fascinating explorations of traditional vocal forms. Overall, this is a charming addition to my collection.