Bill Frisell — The Intercontinentals

Bill Frisell is a unique musician, and probably the most immediately identifiable jazz guitarist of the past 30 years. He is constantly exploring new ensemble sounds and The Intercontinentals is a group that he put together to showcase the sounds of Africa and the middle east. Christos Govetas is a Greek oud player from Macedonia who plays in the Turkish style.

I guess this is another one that doesn't qualify as "Arabic", but I bend the rules for any jazz with oud. This is a really good album, one that appeals to a wide range of people. Frisell reportedly conceived the project as a collaboration with legendary Malian guitarist Boubacar Traore, but unfortunately it was not possible to make the record with him. They are joined by violinist Jenny Scheinmann, Brazilian guitarist Vinicius Canturia, and Malian percussionist Sidiki Camara, as well as slide guitarist Greg Leisz.