“Stambeli is a stunningly original, ethnographically rich, and theoretically nuanced work that nicely bridges the gap that often separates ethnomusicology from less musically inclined anthropological scholarship. Jankowsky knows his music, has spent quality time as an apprentice stambeli musician, and has used this highly focused experience in the field to think deeply about the phenomenology of spirit possession—he has immersed himself in the world of stambeli music, and we, the readers, are richer for it.”

Paul Stoller, West Chester University

“This is by far the best book on Maghrebi music in English. The analysis is sophisticated and theoretically informed, but Jankowsky never lets that obscure his sensitive portrait of the community where he lived. The book moves gracefully from the broad sweep of history to the organization of the society of musicians and spirits, particular performances, contemporary developments, Jankowsky’s personal experiences, and a hint of what may lie ahead.”--Philip D. Schuyler, University of Washington

Philip D. Schuyler

“Stambeli, Richard C. Jankowsky’s ethnographic and historiographic study of this Tunisian musical tradition, is a welcome contribution to the scholarship on a North African country that is infrequently the subject of such nuanced and extended treatment….Drawing broadly on historical, ethnomusicological, and anthropological sources, Jankowsky has composed a study that offers not only meticulous analysis of the components of this distinctive musical genre and trance healing tradition, but also a sophisticated theoretical engagement with the socio-historical context that fostered its emergence.” 

Rodney Collins | Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute

“a book marked by a convincing ethnography and sound theoretical judgment, clarity of language, and an engaging narrative.”

Bode Omojola | Canadian Journal of African Studies

“Stambeli is a welcome addition to existing ethnomusicological accounts of music’s role in the production of religious ecstasy. . . . Jankowsky’s study is a rich, nuanced, and theoretically sophisticated ethnography of a little-studied tradition that helps further our understanding of the complex cultural history of Tunisia.”

Journal of Religion in Africa