At the forefront of Niyaz is the charismatic Iranian singer Azim Ali, who resides and works in the USA. Ali has continually redefined the classical Persian, Urdu and even Baroque canons with tasteful flourishes of modernity. Fusing tradition and electronica to great effect, she has established a reputation of one of the finest concert performers. At first a trio, Niyaz has lately been extended by superb instrumentalists from Iran, Afghanistan and Turkey playing traditional instruments, such as saz, oud, tabla, and rik. Nevertheless, the electronic violin and charging rhythms inform their sound with currentness. World music for the 21st century.

W http://www.myspace.com/niyaz1