With Brooklyn Rider, dedicated to the victims of Halabja, blending Persian sorrow with Western strings. A deeply personal solo album, recorded after the loss of close loved ones, reflecting grief and resilience. Expanded collaborations with jazz, Western classical, and European musicians. Faced challenges due to the pandemic and political restrictions. Returned where some of his planned concerts were canceled by authorities. Despite obstacles, continued to perform globally, often addressing themes of loss, exile, and cultural dialogue in his music.
Collaborations like It’s Still Autumn with the Rembrandt Trio expanded his repertoire into jazz-classical fusions. Occasionally performed with this lute-like instrument, though less frequently than the kamancheh. Heavy emphasis on improvisation, giving each performance a unique emotional journey. Kalhor has arguably done more than any other living musician to introduce Persian and Kurdish traditions to global audiences. His music often reflects themes of displacement, longing, and resilience — mirroring his own life.
