Orient Secret is a mesmerizing album by Burhan Öçal & The Classical Ensemble of Istanbul. The album is a beautiful blend of traditional Turkish music and classical music. The album features a variety of instruments, including the ney, the oud, and the kanun. The musicians' virtuosity is evident in every track, as they expertly blend Eastern and Western musical traditions.
The album opens with "Mevlana," a hauntingly beautiful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The track features the ney, a traditional Turkish flute, and the kanun, a stringed instrument similar to the zither. The two instruments blend together perfectly, creating a peaceful and meditative sound.
The album's second track, "Hicaz Mandira," features the oud, a pear-shaped stringed instrument commonly used in Middle Eastern music. The track is lively and upbeat, with the oud taking center stage.
Other standout tracks on the album include "Kara Toprak," a mournful piece that showcases the ensemble's ability to create a powerful emotional impact with their music, and "Dört Nala," a lively and energetic track that features the darbuka, a traditional Turkish drum.