Rastak Ensemble

Rastak Music Group is an Iranian contemporary folk music ensemble that was formed as an experimental music group in 1997. Rastak seeks to collect, record and interpret Iranian, Kurdish, Baloch and Turkmen folk music among others for a global audience.

The band is known for blending Iranian folklore melodies with contemporary musical arrangements, which brings new life to ethnic songs and folk traditions. By incorporating authentic folk and Iranian classical instruments, Rastak captures the diversity of Iranian culture, representing a range of ethnic groups, languages, and dialects across the country.

Rastak's music has resonated with global audiences, allowing them to perform on international stages and bring Iranian folk music to world festivals and concert halls worldwide. Their collaborative performances and cross-cultural projects add a universal appeal to their work, making Rastak a respected name in world music and a significant cultural ambassador for Iran's folk heritage.

About Rastak

"Rastak," (Persian: رستاک) in Persian, means a newly born plant that grows at the bottom of a tree. Sometimes it grows taller and stronger than the main tree itself. So, it can be interpreted as a plant with its roots in the ground, containing all the essential elements of life, when it is fully grown. We, the Rastak music group, like the "Rastak" natural process, have borrowed the background of our music from the roots of our history and culture. We have been using ethnic-based themes with our specific arrangement to connect with a more extensive range of the audience worldwide for years.

Rastak incorporates Persian language, Iranian culture and history as well as merging traditional instruments and forms with contemporary rhythms. Rastak has done extensive research into Persian folk music both academically and in practice. They have been focused for the past two decades on the sound of Iranian folklore and diverse cultures; resulting in five albums, five singles and numerous concert tours in Iran and overseas.

International Appearances

Rastak has graced the stages of prestigious international festivals and concerts, serving as true ambassadors of Iranian folk music. With their unique fusion of traditional melodies and contemporary interpretations, they captivate audiences worldwide, sharing the rich and vibrant heritage of Iran.

As a prominent name in the world music scene, Rastak has appeared on several international music festivals and has held many concerts in Iran, England, Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, The Netherlands, Sweden, United States, Canada, Australia, India, Japan, Malaysia, Chile, Poland, Turkey, Georgia, Belgium, Oman, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, Iraq, United Arab Emirates among others.

International World Music Festivals

Rastak has made a name for itself by performing at various international music festivals. Their unique sound and style have made them stand out in the world music scene. Recently, they performed at the Rainforest World Music Festival 2023 in Sarawak, Malaysia, and the Spirit of Tengri World Music Festival in Almaty, Kazakhstan, where they wowed audiences with their captivating performances. They also performed in Slemani, Hawaii Sahar Music Festival, where they shared their culture and music with their fans and friends. On August 14, 2024, they performed at prestigious Stockholm Culture Festival (Kultur Festivalen) and received well by the audience.

Research

Rastak has always been dedicated to preserving and sharing the authentic essence of Iranian folk music. From the start, our mission has been to explore Iran's rich cultural heritage by tracing melodies to their original sources. We’ve traveled extensively across the country—from remote villages to bustling towns—engaging with local communities, master musicians, and storytellers to discover the genuine and unaltered melodies and stories that define Iran's diverse traditions.

Rastak's passion for world music and cultural preservation inspired them to document these journeys. Through these travels, they captured the vibrant history, customs, and artistic expressions of Iran's many regions on camera, resulting in three captivating documentaries.These films offer a rare window into the origins of Iranian folk music and the cultural stories that influence their music, making them a unique resource for anyone passionate about world music, cultural history, and the timeless connection between music and storytelling.

All My Homeland People

Iran has long been a melting pot for different cultures, each maintaining its own rich heritage alongside the country's ancient culture. A prime example of this diversity is the wide range of folk music and traditional heritage. "All My Homeland People" is Rastak's second album released in 2010, aiming to revive these tunes. Rastak aspires to play a part in preserving folk songs and showcasing the deep roots and rich history of Iranian culture to the world This documentary delves into the various ethnicities and their music, featuring interviews with folk musicians and masters to provide a comprehensive overview of this rich and intricate musical tradition. Iranian folk music is an integral part of the world's musical heritage, and the hope is that this music will help share its beauty and richness with a wider audience.

Sornay-e Nowruz

Rastak's 3rd album, "Sornay-e Nowruz," includes 6 audio and video tracks from Bushehr, Fars, Mazandaran, Kermanshah, Baluchestan, Azerbaijan, Gilan, and Kurdistan. In this documentary, we explore different ethnicities through their music. We also interviewed many folk musicians and masters to overview this rich and complex music comprehensively. In memory of Abolhasan Khoshroo (Persian: ابوالحسن خوشرو), Parvin Bahmani (Persian: پروین بهمنی), and Farhad Gorginpoor (Persian: فرهاد گرگین‌پور).

Members

Over two decades have passed since Rastak’s inception, during which the group has grown both in quality and quantity. The eight talented members of Rastak each bring unique expertise in traditional and folklore Iranian instruments and musical styles. The band’s direction comes from Siroos (Siamak) Sepehri, a visionary leader who shapes Rastak’s artistic path with his deep knowledge of Iranian folk, classical music, and Western classical music. Farzad Moradi is a talented lead singer and multi-instrumentalist with profound knowledge of Iranian folk musical heritage; he started playing the Tanbur, a sacred instrument from Kurdistan, at the age of five. Behzad Moradi is one of the band’s most talented musicians and singers, particularly skilled in various folk percussions, especially the Daf. His magical voice, precise technique, and ability to imitate different dialects and languages from across Iran have significantly contributed to Rastak. Maedeh (Dina) Doosti, known for her expertise in Kamancheh, Gheychak, and Kamanche alto, adds depth and authenticity to the band's sound. Her expressive performances help bridge the gap between Iran’s musical heritage and contemporary audiences, enriching Rastak’s fusion of folk and modern elements. Akbar Esmaeilipour Farsangi, a talented multi-instrumentalist, has extensive experience playing various Iranian classical and folk musical instruments. His musical talent and taste have significantly contributed to Rastak’s arrangements. Majid Poosti is a musician skilled in playing native percussion instruments from various regions of Iran. His knowledge and research into percussions from different ethnicities and regions have greatly contributed to the band. Sahar Rashiditorbati, the youngest band member, plays the Qanun in Rastak. Behzad Pournaghi, one of the co-founders, is a musician and co-composer who arranges the band's music under the artistic direction of Siamak Sepehri. With a strong background in electronic music and sound design, along with his knowledge of Iranian folk instruments, Behzad plays a crucial role in guiding and directing sound engineers during both live concerts and studio recordings.

• Siamak Sepehri: Co-founder, Band Director, Tar Player
• Farzad Moradi: Vocalist and multi instrumentalist
• Behzad Moradi: Vocalist and percussionist
• Dina Doosti: Kamancheh and Kamancheh alto player
• Majid Poosti: Percussionist
• Akbar Esmaeilipour: Tar, Oud, Setar
• Sahar Rashidi: Qanun
• Behzad Pournaghi: Co-founder, Co-composer, Manager

Guest Artists

Previous Members

Omid Mostafavi, Hamed Bolandhemmat, Yasaman Najmeddin, Parisa Inanloo, Yavar Ahmadifar, Mohammad Mazhari, Piran Mohajeri, Sepehr Saadati, Sara Naderi, Kaveh Sarvarian, Yaser Navazandeh, Farzad Khorshidsavar, Negar Ezazi, Saba Jamali, Reza Abedia, Sahar Ebrahim, Nima Niktab, Sara Ahmadi, Hosna Parsa, Danoosh Asadpour, Bita Ghasemi, Hiwa Seyfizadeh

Instruments

Strings

Tar, Qanun, Oud, Kamancheh, Santur, Kamancheh alto, Bam Tar, Tanbur, Dotar, Ghoppoz, Divan, Gheyhak, Rubab, Azeri Tar, Tanboorak, Gheychak Bass, Double Bass, Cello, Guitar, Bass Guitar

Percussions

Tombak, Daf, Dholak, Damam, Naqareh, Desar Koten, Zarb, Zarb Timpo, Dayereh, Bandir, Dayereh Zangi, Dhol, Dom Dom, Kaser, Pipeh, Kasooreh, Tas, Halab, Darbuka, Cajón, Tambourine, Cymbal, Senjak

Wind Instruments

Sorna, Nayanban, Balaban, Dozaleh, Nay Jofti, Qoshmeh, Gharaney, Labak, Neylabak, Laleva, Ney, Donaley, Karnay

Albums and Singles

Rangvareha-ye-Kohan (Ancient Hues) – Audio, 2007

Also known as Ancient Hues is Rastak's first album and has 12 audio tracks. Iran is a vast country with a long history where the wide range of ethnic minorities comprising one nation, is illustrative of congeniality, culture interaction and strong bonds among Iranians. The pieces of this collection as part of  a rich spiritual legacy, belong to a number of these ethnicities; however, they have been given a rather fair air.

Tracks

1. Hoor (Sun) – Bases on the ancient mode of Tanbur
2. Soon-o-Soog (Festivity & Mourning) – An adaptation of Lorestan & Kermanshah music
3. Hejran (Far & Away) – Unaccompanied Kamacheh
4. Paeezeh (Autumn) – Based on a Kurdish local melody
5. Eshragh (Intuition) – Unaccompanied Oud
6. Souda (Passion) – Inspired by a melody from Khorasan
7. Kavir (Desert) – A trio for 2 Tars and 1 Dutar
8. Kajal (Deer) – Based on a local tune from Kurdistan
9. Shoopeh (Glow Worm) – Instrumental piece in Mazandarani
10. Haraee – Based on modes from Mazandaran music
11. Kooran (River) – Instrumental music, incorporating music from Mazandaran and Balochistan
12. Banoor (Bride) – Based on Balochi "sout" mode

Hame-ye Aghvam-e Man (All My Homeland People) – Audio and Video, 2010

Tracks

1. Baroon – Lori
2. Raana – Gilaki
3. Gal Gal – Azeri
4. Leyla – Khorasan
5. Souzaleh – Kurdi
6. Balal – Bakhiari
7. Marochan – Balochi

Sorna-ye Nowruz / Video album, 2013

Rastak's 3rd album Sornay-e Nowruz. It comprises 6 audio and video tracks from Bushehr, Fars, Mazandaran, Kormanj, Baluchestan, Azerbaijan, Gilan and Kurdistan.

Tracks

1. Heleh Mali – Bushehr
2. Yar – Fars province
3. Lareh – Mazandaran
4. Allah Khaneh – Kormanji
5. Hal Haleh – Qashqai
6. Sorna-ye Nowruz – Bakhtiari, Khorasan, Mazandarani, Azeri, Balochi, Gilaki and Kurdi

Mian-e Khorshidha-ye Hamisheh (Among Eternal Suns) – Audio & Video album, 2016

Is Rastak's interpretation of the music of Iran's varied cultures- "Sun" that steadily shine over and across this land generating music as well as ideas. Rastak endeavors is to make use of these endless treasures,  and feels indebted to them. "Among Etrnal Suns" includes 10 audio and video tracks from Kerman, Khuzestan, Hormozgan, Kurdestan, Gars, Baluchestan and Azerbaijan.

Tracks

1. Sakineh – Kerman
2. Biu Barimesh – Khuzestan
3. Ey Yaar – Hormozgan
4. Havaar
5. Botorai – Kurdistan
6. Vasoonak – Fars
7. Zahirook
8. Allah Mani Barag – Blochestan
9. Sanin Yadegarin – Azerbaijan
10. Lezgi

Bahar – Audio & Video album, 2018

New experiences about new arrangements and the use of guitar and cello in combination with Iranian musical instruments. Celebrating Spring, Rastak's latest album includes folk songs from different parts of Iran, with folk lyrics in different languages and dialects. All these tracks have praise of Spring and the Persian New Year as their central theme, hence the name of the album: Bahar (Spring)

Tracks

1. Mandir – Bakhtiari
2. Shekoufeh – Fars
3. Nowruz – Hormozgan
4. Gol-e-Pamchal – Guilan
5. Wahar – Kurdistan
6. Gol Poune – Fars
7. Lala Lar – Azerbaijan

Borderless at Home – Audio Singles 2019–2020

In this project Rastak is working on the music of Iran neighboring countries to be a messenger of peace while depicting the beauty of Middle Eastern music and culture. The idea of this album was born due to the positive feedbacks in overseas performances.

Tracks

1. Laily Jan -Dari
2. Hyo Hayo Hiye – Arabic
3. Asum En Te – Armenian
4. Kuchalar – Azeri
5. Kara Uzum Habbasi – Turkish
6. Laylo – Kurmanji

Dance With Rastak – Audio and Video Album 2021

Tracks

1. Owina (Based on an Azeri song)
2. Ow Bordom (Based on North Khuzestan music)
3. Faatelo (Based on a song from Kerman)
4. Kamarey (Derived from Kurdish music)
5. Shadoomad (Derived from Khorasan music)
6. Asemoon (Based on a song from Shiraz)

Essentials 2023

Tracks

1. Sakineh (Based on a song from south of Kerman)
2. Laleler (Based on a song from Azerbaijan)
3. Sozaleh (A Kurdish song)
4. Baroon (A famous tune from Lorestan)
5. Botorai (Derived from a Kurdish tune)
6. Raana (A Gilaki song from the north of Iran)
7. Leila (Based on a song from Khorasan)
8. Wahar (Based on a Kurdish song)
9. Vasoonak (A very famous tune from Shiraz)
10. Tanbur (Based on a Kurdish song and a Maqam for Tanbur)

Please read the album review by Neil van der Linden in Songlines magazine December 2023 (#193)

Sombre Sky

Sombre Sky (AKA Aseman-e-kaboud), (Persian: آسمان کبود) is a single recorded in Istanbul and published in 2022. It is based on an old song performed by Iradj Mahdian.

Tehna [1]

"Tehna" is a heartfelt love song by Rastak that merges traditional Bakhtiari music with modern electronic elements, offering a fresh sound to an ancient tale of love and longing. In Bakhtiari, "Tehna" means "lonely," and the song encapsulates the solitude and yearning of a lover separated from their beloved. Soulful vocals and traditional Iranian instruments weave together with subtle electronic rhythms, creating an evocative atmosphere that captures the resilience and depth of love, enduring across time and distance. "Tehna" is both a homage to Bakhtiari