NAVAZ

Guitarist Eric Tompkins and Persian singer Neda are on a creative journey that draws from their richly diverse musical and cultural backgrounds. Originally from Iran, Neda lived for many years in Washington DC and London, England where she performed Persian standards and traditional music. She frequently shared the stage with well known Iranian performers such as Hayedeh, Aslani, Moein and Leyla. Neda met Eric in 2006 and began a musical collaboration which would eventually take her to Canada. Eric's experience playing jazz and Latin music and his interest in world music perfectly compliments Neda's enchanting voice. Within a short time Navaz was formed (the name translated from Farsi as caressing or playing music). Since 2007 they have toured BC and have been performing at festivals. Last year they recorded a live performance at CBC's Studio One in Vancouver BC (featured on Canada Live). Much of the music of Navaz is rooted in the Sufi poetry of Hafez and Rumi, while some of it has a more contemporary Persian sound fused with Spanish and Brazilian rhythms. Although Neda's background is Persian, she sings in Spanish, Italian, French and English. At a concert you can expect to hear echos of Edith Piaf, Googoosh, and a touch of Patsy Cline. The music will make you want to dance or take you on an exotic journey to far away places. . .