Among intertwined lineages, Jewish cantorial music, Ottoman classical, Arab folk, Greek, Armenian, and flamenco, Baklava Express has become a space where they all converge. This project honors traditions not by recreating them, but by composing new music for a shared future. In times of division, we offer a meeting place. When identity is narrowed, we expand artistic imagination. Our new album, Sababa (an Arabic word meaning “cool,” adopted into Hebrew), is part of that expansion.

Sababa is our second album of original compositions, rooted in these distinct, yet related traditions. The pieces echo their sources, close enough to evoke home, yet something new. We are creating original music shaped by tradition, not confined by it.

Today, nostalgia for an imagined past deepens divisions, and cultural identities seem fixed. We propose something else: Traditions coexisting, instrumental music meaning something unique to each listener, and a shared sonic space inviting a more generous world. These song without lyrics, inspired by the tradition of niggunim,  belong to everyone.

We’re recording “Sababa” at Studio 42 in Brooklyn. Unlike our debut, this reflects a group that has played hundreds of shows, refined our arrangements, and developed deep musical trust. The ensemble: Josh Kaye (oud/compositions), Daisy Castro (violin/cello), Eren Erdogan (ney/kaval), Lefteris Bournias (clarinet), James Lambrosse (guitar), James Robbins (bass), and Jeremy Smith (percussion). Each brings unique history, enriching the sound. The album should be released April 17, 2026. And with your help, it will get the production it deserves.

We’re trying to raise $25,000
$10,000- studio services and production
$5,000- our musicians
$1,200- album art design
$1,500- manufacturing
$6,000- promotion
$2,800- high quality video

Though the real cost is higher, $25,000 lets us complete Sababa with excellence!

Your contribution is:

Each contribution helps us:

Baklava Express exists because of community, the musicians who share the stage, the audiences who show up, and the supporters who believe that music can make a difference.

If this vision resonates with you, we hope you’ll join us in writing the next chapter!