Kheir, Amira
Black Diamonds
It is now 16 years since the unique voice and performances of Amira Kheir first emerged onto an international stage, and 14 since the release of her debut album 'View From Somewhere'. During this time Amira has honed her craft and developed her style, yet her message remains consistent. Born in Italy of Sudanese parents, she does not claim to be Sudan's greatest singer why would she? - but her Sudanese ancestry and pride in Africa's contribution to the world, lie at at her very core. On 'Black Diamonds', her 4th album, self-penned songs sung in English bookend arrangements of classic Sudanese repertoire sung in Arabic - not forgetting one in Italian - all of which combine into a coherent and unified set of recordings that allow Amira to explore Sudan's history and the position in which Sudan and Africa now find themselves: "It is about us, and it is also beyond us". Her musical journey would not have been possible without the consistent support of others, and notable among these must be Nadir Ramzy on oud, backing vocals and spoken word, plus the formidable team of Michelle Montolli on various basses with Leandro Mancini-Olivos on drums and percussion. For 2025 'Black Diamonds' introduces the beautifully sympathetic guitar of Ant Law. Elegant and assured, 'Black Diamonds' is Amira Kheir's heartfelt ode to her Sudanese and African ancestry.