Jakarta. Bali-based Iranian musician and sound therapist Shervin Boloorian on Monday (03/07) launched a cross-cultural music album project, titled "One With The Beloved," to raise awareness about sacred cultures and to promote peace in the Middle East.

Boloorian, a former adviser for US-Iran peace coalitions in Washington D.C., sought inspiration for his project from the 13th century Persian poet Rumi, who constantly wrote about love, compassion, friendship and hope. Poems by the Sufi master have been translated into 23 languages.

Boloorian, who offers musical healing therapy in Ubud, believes Rumi's work can offer a common ground for opposite cultures to meet and interact.

"I felt strongly that a sacred music project with Rumi as the central inspiration could relay an alternative message to what we commonly hear about Iran, Islam and the Middle East to as many people as possible," he said.

The album showcases the traditional Sufi chant, or zikr, modified into a West African sound with instruments that represent both Western and Eastern melodies. The artist uses the Egyptian Ney Flute and Frame Drum, the African Kora, the Indian Bansuri, Dulcimer and Clarinet, Himalayan Meditation Bowls, Brass Chimes, the Spanish Guitar and more in his project.

Boloorian plans to release the album later this summer, just ahead of a European tour in August. He will also conduct interactive musical workshops between shows to engage with his audience.

A full schedule of his forthcoming events and workshops will be available soon on his official website.