It would certainly be a shame if Rajna were written off as the “Middle Eastern” Dead Can Dance. Though Rajna’s music does share an aesthetic affinity with The Serpent’s Egg-era DCD, the group possesses a distinct, and definitely intriguing, character all its own. Rajna creates ethereal soundscapes rich with tribal percussion, sweeps of synths, unusual instrumentation, and haunting vocals; their sound is both authentic and heartfelt, yet their Eastern influences never cross the line into crass Orientalism. The songs ebb and flow, timeless and pure. A further word about the vocals. Jeanne Lefebvre’s voice is heavenly and tragic, yet it never takes center stage. It is used as an instrument, helping to build the songs instead of being a showcased jewel. This, in itself, is a noteworthy and refreshing approach. Rajna is no cult of personality–mood trumps showmanship, art carries the day. Black Tears is essentially a retrospective of a wondrous career: the songs collected here cover the group’s five album releases, five new songs recorded for this album, two rarities, and a special remix. The album is literally full of great music to get lost within. I can imagine no better way to get a taste of this often unrecognized project. Also, it behooves me to mention that the proceeds from this release go to a good cause: Rajna will donate their royalties to the building of a school for children in Tibet.

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