September

About September

Infused with Middle Eastern flair, “September” features Rúben Monteiro on oud and saz, alongside Ada Rusinkiewicz (Hethet) on backing vocals.

Exotic melodies entwine with metal arrangements, creating a song that bridges worlds and embodies the album’s theme of cultural fusion. Ruben’s masterful oud and saz performances add an authentic touch, weaving intricate melodies into the tapestry of our music.

See song lyrics.

“September” is probably the strongest song on the album with its oud (Middle-Eastern short-neck lute) and saz (long-necked stringed instrument) performances from Portuguese multi-instrumentalist Rúben Monteiro, really injecting a Middle Eastern flair to the track. The guitars lay a solid foundation for Rúben to ‘riff’ and solo over with the keys and vocals adding such a wonderful uplifting atmosphere.

Pearl Hunting review by Russell Mulock-Bentley

🇵🇹 RÚBEN MONTEIRO

RÚBEN MONTEIRO is a Portuguese multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer with a diverse musical background. His projects span progressive rock, Mediterranean music, medieval and folk rock, and fusion. Rúben has a particular interest in Eastern and Western Modal Music, which informs his composition and arrangement work. Since the year 2000 Ruben has released around 19 albums, in solo and with different groups, including Albaluna, Kairós Quartet, Nubero and in his solo project.

🇵🇱 ​ADA RUSINKIEWICZ

ADA RUSINKIEWICZ is a Polish vocalist and vocal coach specializing in extreme vocal techniques. Inspired by Melissa Cross, she aims to follow in her footsteps as a vocal instructor. Ada is a singer-songwriter in the progressive-depressive band HETHET.

Oud

The oud is a pear-shaped string instrument commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African music. Originating in the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, the oud has been played for centuries in countries such as Egypt, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and Turkey, among others. With a history spanning centuries, it typically has 11 or 13 strings grouped in courses and is played with a unique picking technique using a plectrum known as a “risha.”

Saz

The saz is a long-necked lute originating from Anatolia and the Caucasus. It is fundamental in Turkish and Kurdish music, featuring a long, fretted neck and a round body. The saz is played with a pick called a “mızrap,” allowing for fast and intricate melodic lines.