The long-running West Coast-based Secret Chiefs project, here in it's third iteration as an octet, takes on John Zorn's "Book Beri'ah" in its 10th volume, presenting 12 of the final Masada compositions in energetically exciting and virtuosically superb renderings, genre-mashing rock, jazz, fusion, ethnic and avant forms, a superbly compelling and joyful album.

Brazilian percussionist Cyro Baptista's Banquet Of The Spirits takes on the 9th volume of composer John Zorn's Book Beri'ah, "Yesod", from his Masada series, here in jubilant rhythms of strong Latin influence and rich Sephardic melodies, performed in a quartet with Shanir Ezra Blumenkranz on accordian, Brian Marsella on piano & vibraphone, and Tim Keiper on drums.

Blending a punk rock sensibility with Sephardic tribalism via a taste of North African Gnawa magic, Abraxas is one of the most primal and rocking ensembles in the Masada family, here taking on the 5th edition of Masada Book Three, "The Book Beri'ah", recording in Bill Laswell's studio for 9 joyfully exuberant and intensely executed interpretations of Zorn's compositions.