Algeria

Track Listings

 
1. Algeria
2. Baba el Gnawi
3. Menjani
4. Frik Fashion
5. Reche Sous le Cheche
6. Inaal Ding Dingue Dong
7. Istikbar
8. Bleu Blanc Gyrophare
9. H'mar Dem
10. Baba Salem
11. Pi R2
12. Istikbar
13. Ombre-Elle
14. Saharagga
15. Grass a l'Herbe
16. Koubayara

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
One of the Most Exciting and Popular Band Coming from the Contemporary North African Scene Produced in France, Combining Oral Heritage and Modern Youth Trends Into a Rich and Funky Tribal Hip Hop.

Algeria,Gnawa Diffusion,Sonodisc,Africa,Afro-Pop,Algeria,Int'l & World Music,Pop
Arabic Groove
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Arabic Groove
  • Cool Groove
  • Listen to someone else's Top 10 countdown...
  • I love this cd
  • Rocking the kasbah
Arabic Groove
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Putumayo World Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Putumayo Presents: Turkish Groove
  2. Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms
  3. Putumayo Presents: Sahara Lounge
  4. Putumayo Presents: North African Groove
  5. Asian Groove

ASIN: B00005J6WU
Release Date: 2001-06-12

Tracks:

  1. Moi Et Toi - Abdel Ali Slimani
  2. Galbi - Abdy
  3. Leiley (Transglobal Underground Remix) - Dania
  4. Amarain - Amr Diab
  5. Intil Waheeda - Hisham Abbas
  6. Hely Meli - Hamid El Shaeri
  7. Mani - Fadela & Sahraoui
  8. Kidda - Natacha Atlas
  9. Mauvais Sang - Khaled
  10. Ne Me Jugez Pas (Volodia Remix) - Sawt El Atlas
  11. L'histoire - Cheb Tarik

Amazon.com

While not yet part of mainstream American music, Middle Eastern music, as evidenced by the rise of Algerian pop star Khaled in France, has sidled up to other club music forms in the hot spots of Paris, London, and elsewhere. To that end, Putumayo's Arabic Groove brings us up to date with their compilation, a jubilant sonic party rooted in ancient musical tradition and structure, steeped in the au courant flavors of hip-hop, R&B, and other urban western forms. Lebanese, Egyptian, Moroccan, and Algerian artists such as former Londoner Natacha Atlas (who has been featured with both Transglobal Underground and Jah Wobble) contribute 11 songs which lend themselves to sensual dance, exotic drink, and glamorous gatherings of multicultural hipsters. Traditional Arabic instruments such as the flute and oud blend with guitar, bass, and drums, laying down plenty of funk, fun, and full-on booty-shaking rhythms. A heady high point is the disco-nomad jam "Leiley," a Transglobal Underground remix of a hit by Lebanese songstress Dania. Arabic Groove is a feast of a sampler. --Paige La Grone

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Arabic Groove.......2007-06-17

Middle Eastern music at it's best. I am quite satisfied with this purchase. As a matter of fact I purchased an additional one for a friend. Putmayo is the best.

5 out of 5 stars Cool Groove.......2007-05-07

This is excellent for either listening or dancing. My dance teacher found it also to be an excellent example of music to dance to. Everyone who has heard it has enjoyed it. I really recommend it for Arabic music lovers everywhere.

5 out of 5 stars Listen to someone else's Top 10 countdown..........2006-08-22

I heard some of this while serving in Iraq. As a fan of "world music" it caught my attention right away. If you enjoy some exposure to other cultures and like to tap your foot, check this one out.

4 out of 5 stars I love this cd.......2006-08-16

I love the cd but the first song is messed up. there is a scratch or something on it. but I don't care much because the rest is awesome. I listen to it constantly.

5 out of 5 stars Rocking the kasbah.......2006-06-14

This was the CD that started Putumayo's Groove series;so far,it's one of the best.While many of the songs are about unrequited love,they are also incredibly danceable&upbeat.

Highlights-
1)Moi et toi-This has a funky beat.
2)Galbi-Another great song about unrequited love.Abdy is truly talented.
3)Leiley-A remix by Transglobal Underground.Dania's song of longing is amazing.
4)Kidda-This song introduced me to the great Natacha Atlas.I now have 3 of her CDs.This song,of course,is about unrequited love&is quite raw&powerful.
5)Ne me jugez pas-A boy band from Morocco sings a great song remixed by Volodia.


If you want a bazaar of music,try this one!
Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Mix down the vocals, and maybe
  • Kind of disappointing
  • Mediocre Middle Eastern collection
  • Awesome CD
  • Excellent Foray to Rye Music
Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Ark 21
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
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EgyptEgypt | Africa | International | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Arabic Groove
  2. Desert Roses & Arabian Rhythms II
  3. Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms, Vol. 3
  4. Moroccan Spirit
  5. Immortal Egypt

ASIN: B00005A8LX
Release Date: 2001-03-20

Tracks:

  1. Mon Amie La Rose - Natacha Atlas
  2. La Valse - Faudel
  3. Aalach Tloumouni - Khaled
  4. Inchallah - Latifa
  5. Desert Rose (Melodic Club Mix) - Sting/Cheb Mami
  6. Chie Begam - Andy
  7. I'm Yours - Soraya
  8. Dis Moi Pourquoi - Amina
  9. Hay Wadi Hay Galbi - Cheb Mami
  10. Pomegranate - Trans-Global Underground
  11. Esma Yalli - Hakim
  12. La Titnahad - Kazem Al Saher
  13. Qalantiqa - Rachid Taha

Amazon.com

When Sting collaborated with Cheb Mami on the Brand New Day track "Desert Rose," he created a surprising demand for Arabic crossover pop. This collection provides a suitable next stop for those whose taste was whetted by that collaboration. Egyptian singer Natacha Atlas opens the album with "Mon Amie la Rose," a maudlin little French tune she twists through her wringer until it is utterly transformed. "Desert Rose" turns up as a frisky remix by Victor Calderone, while Rachid Taha and the trance choir, B'Net Marrakech, appear in the compelling, orchestrated "Qalantica." Mami is heard on his own on one tune, but is eclipsed by the gut-shredding Khaled, the undisputed king of Algerian rai. The harder-edged electronic outings are standouts, while the tracks that are the Arabic equivalent of adolescent pop don't hold up nearly as well. This compilation, however, mostly eschews the dross in favor of tunes that go the distance. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Mix down the vocals, and maybe.......2007-06-04

I loved Arabesque and Arabian Travels, but this is not trance. This is more like Arabian pop music. The vocals are irritating to me. Sting even shows up on one track. If you are looking for world trance, or something to chill out or relax to, forget this one.

3 out of 5 stars Kind of disappointing.......2007-02-02

I love world music and Putumayo CDs.
I also loved that Desert Rose song and the amazing voice of Cheb Mami with Sting.
I bought this CD expecting a sexy "One Thousand and One Nights" music style, or a good fusion of traditional and modern sounds, but instead, what I got was a KITSCH POP version of arabic songs.
Some of the songs are just bad taste, you just want to forward them as quickly as possible.
I should have guessed just by the look of the cover. It reflects the music as well. The painting might be nice, but the mix with the modern computer added photo image and the strange balls of roses just don't work well together. The same goes for the songs.
I don't recommend it, unless you're looking for cheesy disposable pop.



2 out of 5 stars Mediocre Middle Eastern collection.......2006-12-21

This compilation of Arabic pop hits around the same time as Sting&Cheb Mami's "Desert Rose" hit and Putumayo's "Arabic Groove" album,not surprisingly.It's disappointing,since it focuses more on westernized Arabic hits than genuinely Arabic ones.For its surprising blandness,there are highlights-
1)A remix of Cheb Mami&Sting's hit song "Desert Rose." It's very danceable,and in sync with the spirit of the original.Cheb Mami and Sting had one of those rare great celebrity duets.They powerfully melded their styles,making something wonderful.
2)Khaled is always great.His songs are never a disappointment--no wonder he's called the King of Rai.
3)Amina's "Dis Moi Pourquoi" is an excellent dancefloor song.It was a hit in France,and musically,it works.It's French chanson meeting Tunisian pop.
4)Speaking of French chanson,Natacha Atlas radically re-imagines Edith Piaf's "Mon amie la rose",transforming it from a Gallic weepie into a sensual Arabic serenade.
5)Hakim,who is considered a prince of rai,has a great song.
6)Cheb Mami's "Hay wadi hay galbi" is amazing.While Khaled is almost Arabic R&B,and Hakim is a Middle Eastern boy band sort,this song shows off Cheb Mami's musical gymnastics.It's quite stunning.After hearing this,I got his "Saida" album.

Instead of getting this,I reccomend Putumayo's "Sahara Lounge" (its best Middle Eastern compilation)and "Arabic Groove." "Desert Roses" has a half-dozen hits,the rest are forgettable.If you like Middle Eastern music,explore Putumayo's compilations instead.

5 out of 5 stars Awesome CD.......2005-07-23

I just bought this CD along with a bunch of other and I absolutely love it. It's great for belly dancing too as well as just listening to while you're doing housework.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Foray to Rye Music.......2004-12-16

This album is a splendid way to get into Rye music. Sting's hit single performance with Cheb Mami sparks interest, and the rest of the more obscure (in America, that is) tracks are all beautiful. Fun gift for somebody who is learning French (Maghreb music is often sung in French,) or just seeking out some more exotic music. Also, fabulously sultry dancing music!
Mesk Elil
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • wonderful sound
  • one of the most beautiful contemporary North African singers today....
  • She does it again.
  • A voice like honey
  • An Algerian In Paris
Mesk Elil
Souad Massi
Manufacturer: Wrasse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

AlgeriaAlgeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Deb (Heartbroken)
  2. Raoui
  3. Solo in Rio 1959
  4. In the Heart of the Moon
  5. Dimanche a Bamako

ASIN: B000BCKFJ8
Release Date: 2005-11-15

Tracks:

  1. Mesk Elil
  2. Kilyoum
  3. Ilham
  4. Khalouni
  5. Denia Wezmen
  6. Tell Me Why
  7. Miwawa
  8. Dar Djedi
  9. Malou
  10. Hagda

Amazon.com

For her third album, which was a strong presence on the European world music charts throughout late 2005, the Algerian-born, Paris-based singer-songwriter has chosen to operate on a much larger scale. Mauritanian vocalist Daby Touré (a star in the making if there ever was one), Pascal Danaë, a French-born musician of Caribbean ancestry and the versatile Mino Cinelu on percussion are only a few of the capable artists appearing on the recording. The tunes are a mixed bag, jazzy, sophisticated yet for the most part true to their sources; clearly Massi is trying her wings as a composer. Ilhem ("Inspiration") a percussive gem fronted by chiming plucked strings, is infectiously extroverted and packs a strong West African/Touareg flavor, while Khalouni ("Let Me"), a North African-Iberian confection sung with a wonderful male singer named Rabah Kaifa, gets the blood moving. But the title track, with its limp Brazilian-inspired melody and MOR-like string arrangements, is less effective. Ultimately, although Massi's former one-on-one, almost perilously intimate rapport with the listener seems somewhat refracted these days, her message is as timely as ever. Her sensuous alto voice remains swooningly flexible yet serenely unadulterated, a miracle of confident, sensitive femininity. --Christina Roden

Album Description

Souad Massi's melodies-at once exotic and familiar-are influenced by shaabi music, French chanson, flamenco, 1960s American folk, and a variety of African musical traditions. Accessible and engaging, her delicate guitar playing is the perfect accompaniment to her beautiful lyric. "Mesk Elil" the highly anticipated 3rd album follows on from 2004's "Deb".

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars wonderful sound.......2007-02-08

Heard Bel El Madhi (The Gate Of The Past) from the DEB CD on Link.TV and was intrigued by the wonderful melody. Bought the CD. Loved it. Bought the other three that have been issued by this great Algerian group (including Mesk Elil). Even bought some more to give to friends. THis lady has an absolutely wonderful, clear, crisp and sultry voice.

5 out of 5 stars one of the most beautiful contemporary North African singers today...........2006-08-10

If this is your introduction to Souad Massi, this is definitely a strong example of her beautiful and haunting body of work. "Mesk Elil" is album #3 for this Algerian-born, Parisian based alto. Souad combines the haunting Arabic-inspired percussive rhythms with inspirations spanning everything from bossa nova to ballad, flamenco to trip hop.

The strength of "Mesk Elil" is in Souad's strong delivery of the songs. Also, the tone of this album and its pieces are delivered in an introspective and very poetical way. After you are done listening to this album, I suggest you check out "Deb," her 2nd (and in my opinion) strongest album. You will fall in love with her (you'll have no choice!!).

5 out of 5 stars She does it again. .......2006-06-06

Ilham is a really fun tune. Dar Dgedi is a really sad and touching song even though I can't understand the lyrics! I can't remember which tracks are my favorite right off hand. While I don't think this song has as many catchy tunes, the production overall is better than her previous two albums. Like her first two, it gets heavy rotation in my home and car stereos. It's a must have album

5 out of 5 stars A voice like honey.......2006-02-26

This is the best of Massi's albums yet. The range of her voice is extraordinary. With a touch of South America, a little Africa and her own magic added for good measure. There are no filler tracks on this CD !!

Outstanding and thoroughly recommended.

4 out of 5 stars An Algerian In Paris.......2006-02-09

Algerian born Souad Massi continues with another strong performance in her third CD 'Honeysuckle/Mesk Elil.' Her voice doesn't appear to be as strong, or her range as vast as some of the other more well known female voices in the genre of Middle East/World Music, it is none-the-less an immensely enjoyable exotic sound incorporating all the traditional vocal nuances that one would hope for.

While the upbeat, festive tracks like 'Inspiration' and 'I Won't Forget My Roots' are a nice change of pace, I think the poetic, melancholy love songs like 'Honeysuckle', 'There's Worse' and my personal favorite 'Why Is My Heart Sad' are Souads' real musical strength.
Deb (Heartbroken)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • fantastic
  • More people need Souad Massi
  • beautiful
  • Worth it
  • Excellent music!
Deb (Heartbroken)
Souad Massi , and Souad Massi
Manufacturer: Wrasse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

AlgeriaAlgeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
World DanceWorld Dance | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Mesk Elil
  2. Raoui
  3. Raoui
  4. Amassakoul
  5. La Llorona

ASIN: B0002H4MB4
Release Date: 2004-06-29

Tracks:

  1. Ya Kelbi (Oh! My Heart)
  2. Ghir Enta (I Only Love You)
  3. Ech Edani (I Shouldn't Have Fallen in Love With You)
  4. Yemma (Mummy, I Lie to You)
  5. Yawlidi (My Little Boy)
  6. Le Bien et le Mal (Good and Evil)
  7. Houria (Freedom)
  8. Deb (Heart Broken)
  9. Moudja (The Wave)
  10. Passe le Temps (As Time Goes By)
  11. Theghri (I Send an S.O.S.)
  12. Bel el Madhi (The Gate of the Past)

Amazon.com

The Algeria-born Massi is sometimes referred to as the "Arabic Tracey Chapman"--but given her espousal of social and political issues, comparisons to dauntless advocates like Joan Baez, and especially, Israel's Chava Alberstein are far more apt. For her second album, the gently courageous singer applies her cool, sweet, preternaturally flexible voice and folk-influenced guitar to tales about love, parental concerns, and the universal longing for personal freedom. That she has made a serious study of the intricate, sensual Arab-Andalusian tradition is plainly audible in her compositions and arrangements, but sounds from the Indian subcontinent, French chanson, and American soft jazz have also seeped in. She is outspoken without rancor, passionate without disorder, and poetic without sentimentality--a beautiful woman with an aura of grace, intellect, and empathy, a modest yet arresting presence. In an age of loud-mouthed self-interest and garish overkill, she glows quietly, like a perfect pearl. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars fantastic.......2007-02-08

Heard Bel El Madhi (The Gate Of The Past) on Link.TV and was intrigued by the wonderful melody. Bought the CD. Loved it. Bought the other three that have been issued by this great Algerian group. Even bought some more to give to friends. THis lady has an absolutely wonderful, clear, crisp and sultry voice.

5 out of 5 stars More people need Souad Massi.......2006-06-06

Ghir Enta alone is worth your money, but this whole album is utterly fantasitc. Some songs are catchy, some are soothing, but they all share her fantastic voice and instrument playing. I'm not even a huge fan of world music. I'm more of a metal and electronic person, but the first time I heard Souad Massi I was hooked. You will be too.

5 out of 5 stars beautiful.......2006-03-09

I heard this reviewed on NPR and immediately knew I wanted it. Even though I don't know what she's singing about most of the time, her passion is universal.

This is great music to do it to.

4 out of 5 stars Worth it.......2006-02-07

I only liked 3 songs on this CD, numbers 2,3,& 5, but they were so good that I find myself back here again looking for more Massi. They really were worth the price of the CD. I hope Raoui will have some great gems also.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent music!.......2006-01-22

I love Ms. Massi because she has a unique style. Her music is relaxing and adorable. I love the complete cd, but specially Deb. The lyrics are nice as well.
Raoui
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Great
  • Melodic
  • a great introduction to Souad Massi......
Raoui
Souad Massi
Manufacturer: Wrasse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

AlgeriaAlgeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
World DanceWorld Dance | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Deb (Heartbroken)
  2. Mesk Elil
  3. Honeysuckle
  4. In the Heart of the Moon
  5. Dimanche a Bamako

ASIN: B0002YLCP6
Release Date: 2004-10-19

Tracks:

  1. Raoui
  2. Bladi
  3. Amessa
  4. Tant Pis Pour Moi
  5. Hayati
  6. Nekreh El Keld
  7. Denya
  8. Khsara Aalik
  9. Rani Rayha
  10. J'ai Pas De Temps
  11. Awham
  12. Lamen
  13. Enta Dari
  14. Matebkiche

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great.......2007-02-08

Heard Bel El Madhi (The Gate Of The Past) from the DEB CD on Link.TV and was intrigued by the wonderful melody. Bought the CD. Loved it. Bought the other three CDs that have been issued by this great Algerian group (including Raoui). Even bought some more to give to friends. THis lady has an absolutely wonderful, clear, crisp and sultry voice.

5 out of 5 stars Melodic.......2007-01-05

This is a beautiful acoustic CD. I gave this CD with Azam Ali's "Portals of Grace" to both of my mothers for Christmas and they loved them both. Massi's voice in this CD is beautiful, like a silk ribbon in the wind, but with expert control. I love "Raoui", "Matebkiche", "Hayati", and "Nekreh El Keld". I have this CD and "Honeysuckle". I like this CD better,, but the other one is great too. I still have to get "Deb" and "Mesik Elil".

5 out of 5 stars a great introduction to Souad Massi.............2005-08-23

This is the second album I have heard by the reknown Souad Massi (of Algeria). This was actually her first major release in the United States (2001). "Raoui" ("Storyteller" in Arabic) is a mix of acoustic accompaniment, expressive rock and soulful duets.

While "Deb" (her 2004 release), is more of a fusion piece (done masterfully and with great energy), "Raoui" is rooted more in the traditional and haunting sounds of Algeria. We hear the melodious guitar introduction and then Souad's soaring vocals. In some ways, the tone of her voice is comparable to Shakira (without the edge). She sounds like she is trying to choke back the tears and cry out in sweet release. Great examples of her musical interpretation are on the title track, "Noir Et Blanc" ("Black and White" in French--a duet with Ismael Lo), "J'ai pas de temps" ("I Don't Have the Time"/French), and "Lamen" ("Trust" in Arabic).

More English speakers should get to know this underrated and underappreciated vocalist from North Africa. This is a great introduction to the world of contemporary Algerian ballads, rock and gorgeous musical arrangements.
Sahra
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • One thing you all forgot to mention----
  • Great Melodies, Wonderful Voice
  • Just Too Dangerous
  • 100 STARS
  • AWESOME MUSIC FOR THE REGGAE CATEGORY!
Sahra
Khaled
Manufacturer: Fontana Island
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
AlgeriaAlgeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Khaled
  2. N'ssi N'ssi
  3. Ya-Rayi
  4. Kenza
  5. 1, 2, 3 Soleils

ASIN: B000001EZ1
Release Date: 1997-05-13

Tracks:

  1. Sahra
  2. Oran Marseille (Khaled & IAM)
  3. Aa (Mixed Version)
  4. Lillah
  5. Ouelli El Darek
  6. Detni Essekra
  7. Walou Walou
  8. Ki Kounti
  9. Wahrane Wahrane
  10. Haya Haya
  11. Mektoubi
  12. Hey Ouedi

Amazon.com

The often superficial relationship between Algeria's rai music and Jamaica's reggae is fleshed out by Khaled on Sahra, a CD named after his daughter. On 3 of the 12 tracks, he utilizes the cream of Jamaican studios and performers. The symbiosis is manifested most strongly on "Ouelli El Darek", which features no less than the I Threes, Mickey Chung, and Dean Fraser, among others, on a fine cross-cultural workout with Khaled at the top of his form. Elsewhere he picks out some of the best funksters and North African superstars, recording in Paris and Los Angeles with seven sets of producers, including Don Was, Philippe Heidel, Clive Hunt, and Akhenaton & Imhotep. Despite all these cooks, the stew holds together well with strong material and great performances, and echoes the international acceptance of rai music today--largely the result of Khaled's continued popularity at home and abroad. --Derek Rath

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars One thing you all forgot to mention----.......2007-05-31

---and that is, did anyone notice that Tony Williams (Yes, THAT Tony Williams, I researched it) plays drums on this record too! OMG. You know? I am not going to review this disk, everyone else was plenty elegant in reviewing it, except to say: It's great!
Six stars if I could.

5 out of 5 stars Great Melodies, Wonderful Voice.......2007-05-14

I am not a particular fan of Khaled. To be honest, I was introduced to his music by a friend about two years ago, when I discovered that one of my favourite songs from a group was indeed a cover/translation of one of his songs. To be honest, I loved this disc. I haven't heard much more of him beyond what is already here, but this disc made me want to explore a bit more his music.

5 out of 5 stars Just Too Dangerous.......2007-04-28

Soulful, masterly, inexhaustible, joyful, passionate, powerful. No wonder those religious fanatics tried to kill him -- this much fun is just too dangerous.

5 out of 5 stars 100 STARS.......2006-09-28

I have worn out one copy of this cd. Nearly every track is PERFECT. It is pure passionate beauty and joy. BLISS to dance to!!!!!!!!!! Walou Walou puts me in ecstacy EVERY TIME. Love, love love love, love LOVE Khaled!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

5 out of 5 stars AWESOME MUSIC FOR THE REGGAE CATEGORY!.......2005-07-13

This music is great. I heard the song titled "Sahra" back in 1997, when my dad played it in his car. I was like who is this guy? I love REGGAE, SOCA, CALYPSO, ZOUK, COMPA, & AFRICAN MUSIC. All those six big genres and their sub genres fall under what I call The "REGGAE CATEGORY." This music is a mix of tropical, arabic, reggae funk, and true african falvors that reach through all borders. Khaled is truly a talented perfromer,singer, and writer. I am just surprised that he is not popular in America. If he had a RAI concer North America, I guarantee, many americans would have a "RAI" craze. Anyone reading this, I strongly recommend you buy this cd, if you do not like it, sell it back or give it to a friend. But give it a chance and it will grow on you. This music is great, it falls right under African-Algerian music. I promise you will not be disappointed.

Reggae Forever!
Under the Moroccan Sky
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Truly sacred
Under the Moroccan Sky
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Sounds True Direct
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Moroccan Spirit
  2. Rhythms of Morocco
  3. B'ismillah: Fes Festival Of World Sacred Music
  4. Hamdulillah: Fes Festival Of World Sacred Music, Vol. II
  5. The Rough Guide to the Music of Morocco

ASIN: B00005B53M
Release Date: 2001-05-08

Tracks:

  1. Musa Dieng Kala
  2. Ibn 'Arabi
  3. Houria Aichi
  4. Dufay Collective
  5. Tekameli
  6. Nass El Ghiwane
  7. Aruna Sairam
  8. Avay-E-Doust
  9. Sheikh Tacine Al Tuhamy

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Truly sacred.......2001-07-30

The music on this CD is magical in its way of taking you to sacred places, to see in your mind's eye the spirits that live around us. Listening to this music on a hot summer evening is a truly heart and mind touching experience! It is a rare CD indeed that keeps me listening to it over and over again! The similarities and differences of religious music around the world makes for excellent doctoral dissertation stuff, and I won't go there now, but the rich tapestry of sounds presented here make me want to go immediately to North Africa and the Middle East. Magnificent!!
1, 2, 3 Soleils
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • 1,2,3 Soleils
  • 1,2,3 soleils
  • Magnificent
  • Best Live Rai CD out there!
  • A Mystical Journey........
1, 2, 3 Soleils
Taha , Khaled , and Faudel
Manufacturer: Ark 21
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

AlgeriaAlgeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Middle East | International | Styles | Music
Fusion & World FusionFusion & World Fusion | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Sahra
  2. Khaled
  3. Diwan
  4. Ya-Rayi
  5. Aiysha

ASIN: B00005TQ72
Release Date: 2001-12-11

Tracks:

  1. Khalliouni
  2. Menfi
  3. Eray
  4. N'Ssi N'Ssi
  5. Ida
  6. Wahrane Wahrane
  7. Chebba
  8. Abdel Kader
  9. Aicha
  10. Tellement N'Brick
  11. Didi
  12. Ya Rayah
  13. Comee D'Hab

Amazon.com

This CD documents an epochal 1998 performance by three Algerian singer-composers. Khaled is the undisputed king of rai, a rebellious, Western-influenced style spawned in the port city of Oran. As he was in constant danger from outraged Muslim fundamentalists, he fled to Paris. Later on, Rachid Taha formed a rock band called Carte de Sejour (Green Card), which addressed the concerns of downtrodden immigrant populations in France. Last but not least, the talented newcomer Faudel is often referred to as Khaled's heir apparent. The 13 tracks include such monster hits as "Didi," "N'ssi N'ssi," and "Chebba," plus "Aicha"--a bit of ear candy from Jean-Jacques Goldman--and the French pop chestnut "Comme le Habitude." This is easily one of the best-engineered live recordings ever made, capturing the empathy shared by the singers and a wildly enthusiastic audience while providing an indelible sense of time and place. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars 1,2,3 Soleils.......2007-07-12

This CD is great. For those of us who are used to western rock, this is a very cool introduction to French-Algerian Rai music. It has opened up a new world of music for me. Highly recommended.

Camis
Los Angeles

5 out of 5 stars 1,2,3 soleils.......2006-03-19

very good cd you get the 3 best rai artists on 1 cd

5 out of 5 stars Magnificent.......2005-05-10

This is by far one of the best CDs I have ever owned. I really am at a loss for words of how good this really is. Like the other readers, although I understand French I do not know any Arabic, and yet I feel transported every time I listen to any of the songs in this concert. Wahrane Wahrane, Abdel Qader, Aicha are definitely my favorites. I just can't stop listening to any of them. I listen to all the songs anywhere, at work, in the shower, before going out, in the mornings... Not only for listening, but the songs are also great for those who like me love bellydancing.

5 out of 5 stars Best Live Rai CD out there!.......2004-09-16

This concert shows how truly amazing Rai music is, especially when it features 3 of the greatest Rai singers of all time, Faudel, Khaled and Rachid Taha. Although this CD only has 13 songs from that concert out of the original 21 songs that were sung, it features all of the highlight songs from the concert. The 9 that were left out were "Baida", "Omri", "Voila Voila", "Indie", "Sahra", "Madeeh", "Les Ailes", "La Camel", and "Bent Sahra". There is a 2 CD set of this concert available as well so if you want the entire thing I highly recommend buying the 2 CD set. The singers do duets and solos and even all 3 sing together like on "Menfi", "Abdel Kader", "Didi" and "Ya Rayah". The only song on here which is not live is "Comme d'Habitude" which is a studio recording. This CD doesn't do the justice on how big and successful this concert really was by leaving out 9 great songs, but it gets the idea across well. The songs I thought stood out are "Wahrane Wahrane" and "Abdel Kader". Khaled does "Wahrane Wahrane" solo and is the most Middle Eastern sounding song on this album, and "Abdel Kader" features the 3 singing together on a very well produced live version of this song. This concert is also the one where Sting went to looking for a Middle Eastern voice for his song Desert Rose and where he met Cheb Mami.I don't understand one word of French or Arabic but Rai is truly for everyone and this is Rai at its best, so go buy a copy!

5 out of 5 stars A Mystical Journey...............2003-06-02

This whole concert is a journey. A journey to a far and mystical place. It is a beautiful live recording of three of rai's most prominent singers and proves that music truly transcends language, ethnicity and region. From the passion and energy of "Eray" and "Abdel Qader" (named after the famous Sufi saint of Baghdad) to the sensual and soul-touching "Chebba" this is musical art at its finest. Their rendition of "Chebba" is one of the most beautiful things i've ever heard. I don't understand a word of arabic, but when I hear this concert, I feel i've been speaking it all of my life.
N'ssi N'ssi
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Music From Seventh Heaven
  • Fabulous!
  • I finally got it
  • found it!
  • I Can't Get Enough of this CD!
N'ssi N'ssi
Khaled
Manufacturer: Fontana Polydor
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
AlgeriaAlgeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Khaled
  2. Sahra
  3. The Fifth Element: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
  4. Ya-Rayi
  5. Kenza

ASIN: B000005HU1
Release Date: 1994-03-04

Tracks:

  1. Serbi Serbi
  2. Herbou
  3. Adieu
  4. Chebba
  5. Les Ailes
  6. Alech Tradi
  7. Bakhta
  8. N' Ssi N' Ssi
  9. Zine A Zine
  10. Abdel Kader
  11. El Marsem

Amazon.com

Cheb (young) Khaled was a rebel in his day, an Algerian punk whose music blended racy lyrics with cheesy synths and drum machines in a sort of North African '80s techno. By the time he recorded this CD, he had dropped the Cheb and found that there was a whole world of sounds to choose from. Varying tracks were produced by Don Was and Phillipe Eidel. Eidel added a more lush, North African string orientation, while Was's tracks were pure-pop full of funky bass and R&B horns. Khaled's voice had matured as well, giving him assurance without losing that rebel edge. This recording had a lot of detractors when it came out, deriding it for being a betrayal of the rai "tradition." This is patently absurd, given that rai itself was only a generation old, and was created as a revolt against tradition. With N'ssi N'ssi, Khaled had grown, and so had his music. --Louis Gibson

Album Details

This album contains the 'Taxi Cab Chase Music' from the Fifth Element. This song, 'Alech Tradi,' is not available on the soundtrack album for the Fifth Element, only here.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Music From Seventh Heaven.......2006-07-16

Or audio Hasheesh - take your pick.

One of the most nearly perfect albums I have heard in over four decades of eclectic listening.

I have little idea what Khaled is singing about, or what language or dialect he is singing it in - nor do I much care.
The voice is all you need. Add to that magnificent instrument
superb musicians, spot-on instrumentation, arrangements and production that fits each song like a glove and...what else is necessary to know?

Eleven splendidly varied songs that all groove, cook and flow into each other with an utterly dependable, danceable, intoxicating drive and sheer delight in being alive. It just keeps coming on. And you wish it will never stop. This is music that would make Sufis of the pathetic Taliban.

(Check out Kenza, too!)



5 out of 5 stars Fabulous!.......2004-03-05

This CD is my first experience with rai music. I am now a devoted fan. The first song truly speaks to my heart. The second song KEBOU is my favorite on the album. I am a student of Middle Eastern dance and enjoy all types of Arabic music. I find the music here to be eclectic, hypnotic, and energetic. I do not speak Arabic and currently enjoy listening to Khaled more than any of my English language CD's. I think the varied instrumentation is invigorating and fresh. Khaled's voice is so engaging and the more I hear it the more I love it. Just can't say enough!

5 out of 5 stars I finally got it.......2002-03-11

I bought this CD for the "alachi taadi" song from the fifth element. I was surprised to find other songs that are even better. Great Music

4 out of 5 stars found it!.......2002-02-03

I can't believe Eric Serra would not include the "Taxi Cab Chase Scene" music of Alech Tradi on the 5th Element soundtrack. That's just as well. When I found the song on N'ssi N'ssi, I discovered a whole new sound I absolutely fell in love with. Khaled has become a new favorite for me, and I look forward to hearing his other albums.

5 out of 5 stars I Can't Get Enough of this CD!.......2001-12-22

Even though this is one of the older Rai CDs out there (1993), it is still, by far and away, the very best I've heard. And I have been listening. If you're new to Rai, this is definitely the one to hook you. If you're not new, you still must have it. And if you have no idea what Rai is, but you know how to appreciate that Quincy Jones style funk, then check out what this MUSICAL MASTER does with that American homegrown sound.

However, if all Khaled did was mix American funk production with traditional music, he would be just another good world music artist. But try to wrap your mind around a mélange of North African arab lyrics and insruments that incorporate funk, tango, jazz, and Mediterranean salsa, backed by a doumbec percussion, played by an airtight band that just locks every time.

I'm ready for the concert!
Layali
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Hit the ground dancing
  • no roots
  • Incredible!
Layali
Cheb Mami
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

AlgeriaAlgeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
ArabicArabic | Middle East | International | Styles | Music
InternationalInternational | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Diwan 2
  2. Dellali
  3. Lazrag Saani
  4. Du Sud au Nord
  5. Live au Grand Rex 2004

ASIN: B0009XCD9Y
Release Date: 2006-11-27

Tracks:

  1. Halili
  2. Non G'Sera Non (Dmri Omri)
  3. Gualbi Gualbi
  4. (Leh) Inshallah
  5. Tigi Tigi
  6. Sabran (Ya Ghali)
  7. Gaiye Bil Salama
  8. Ahla Layali Omrina
  9. Ajlissou (Fil Makha)
  10. Nos Couleurs
  11. Ellie Beina Intaha
  12. Alik Maina
  13. Amshi Btaring

Album Description

It's been five years since the immensely successful release of, Dellali, Cheb Mami's last studio album. Layali ( 'The Night' ) was produced in Cairo and Lebanon and finds Cheb Mami straddling Classic Arabic and urban Rai n' B singing styles. The album also features collaborations with significant Arab & Rai artists. 2006.

Album Details

2006, Studio Release from the 'king of Rai". 13 Tracks Recorded in Cairo, London, Madrid and London. The Labum is Produced by Kore and features Duets with K-maro, Elissa, Leslie and Kadim El Sahir.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Hit the ground dancing.......2007-06-08

Only the comatose could resist moving along to the world beats on this beautiful and exciting album. Unlike dance music that is all beat and bass, one might be tempted to hum along with Cheb Mami's intensely melodic vocals - if one dares.

The whole of Layali is an invitation to celebrate life, so as the sole English line on the album encourages: "Come on baby, let's go dance!"

3 out of 5 stars no roots.......2007-02-14

A friend got me a tape of Cheb Mami's Mela Mela when he was teaching English in Saudi Arabia. I liked that album alot and based upon that, I bought Layali. There are some good songs but overall, I found the cd to be very techno-pop and not very Algerian. I admit that as a white guy from the Midwest I am not hip to the youth culture of Algeria but Layali sounds to me like any other pop album from anywhere. In other words, it is nothing special.

5 out of 5 stars Incredible!.......2006-12-13

If you have been exposed to Cheb Mami's previous works, you will not be disappointed in this album. Cheb Mami proves once again why he's at the top of the Rai totem pole. This CD has been on constant repeat in my car and my office for a good 3+ weeks now. Every track is a winner, Nos Couleurs has a little too much hip hop flavor for my taste but others might like it.

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  3. At the Edge
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  5. Bossa Nova Nights
  6. Canto De Pueblos Andinos 1 [Import]
  7. Chill Out Cafe, Vol. 5
  8. Clasicos Latinos [Import]
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Pop Music