Out now on all streaming platforms, a new EP by Nizar Rohana Trio titled The MCO Session:

 

 

Named after the historic MCO studio in Hilversum where it was recorded, The MCO Session showcases Nizar Rohana’s renewed trio, featuring renowned musicians Tony Overwater on double bass and Ruven Ruppik on percussion. The EP captures the evolution of the trio’s sound and musical direction, blending traditional and contemporary elements. The four-track EP includes a mix of new and revisited compositions, including the premiere of Maria, as well as Emm el Zeinat, a piece that originally appeared on Nizar’s debut album Sard and has been re-imagined for the trio. Additionally, it features works from his previous album Furat (Euphrates), such as Madar Hijaz and Samai Muhayyar.

This EP is a tribute to some of Nizar’s musical heroes and idols, including the Ottoman composer and instrumentalist Tanburi Cemil Bey (1873–1916), one of the most influential figures in Middle Eastern music, and Astor Piazzolla, the revolutionary force behind modern tango. By pushing the boundaries of their respective musical traditions while preserving their core identities, both artists continue to inspire how we carry musical traditions forward.

The EP also offers a sneak preview of the trio's upcoming album, scheduled for release in 2026. What makes this album even more special is that it was filmed as well, with a video created for each piece to capture and emphasize the live feel of the recording. These videos are available on YouTube. 

 

Album credits:

Nizar Rohana – oud & composition

Tony Overwater – double bass 

Ruven Ruppik – percussion Composed by Nizar Rohana 

Sound Engineer: Frans de Rond 

Camera & Editing: Chris Blokhuis – Apollo Hill Music Docs 

Recorded at Heuvellan Hilversum (MCO) Studio 2 on 19 March 2025 Hilversum, The Netherlands 

Label: Kepera Records 

Distribution: New Arts International 

Bandcamp release: Worlds Within Worlds