Club Africa [Import]

Product Description
12 Funky Tracks Compiled by the People Behind 'africa Funk' Includes 'samba'- Miriam Makeba, 'el Suhg Ibal Lasiti'- Daktaris and 'kenia'- Mombassa.

Club Africa,Various Artists,Strut

Average customer rating: Maybe 4.5 stars, but still stellar Soulful West African soul First Introduction To Angelique Kidjo Not as good as Black Ivory Soul - but still enhoyable Who Knows?

Djin Djin Angelique Kidjo Manufacturer: Razor &Tie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Mali | Africa | International | Styles | Music Benin | Africa | International | Styles | Music Jamaica | Caribbean & Cuba | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: CéU Momento Keep on Moving-Best of Angelique Kidjo Oyaya! Black Ivory Soul ASIN: B000MTOWSU Release Date: 2007-05-01

Tracks:

1. Ae Ae
2. Djin Djin featuring Alicia Keys and Branford Marsalis
3. Gimme Shelter featuring Joss Stone
4. Salala featuring Peter Gabriel
5. Senamou (C'est L'amour) featuring Amadou and Mariam
6. Pearls featuring Josh Groban and Carlos Santana
7. Sedjedo featuring Ziggy Marley
8. Papa
9. Arouna
10. Awan N'La
11. Emma
12. Mama Golo Papa
13. Lonlon (Ravel's Bolero)

Amazon.com

Angelique Kidjo has four Grammy nominations, a mantel-full of international awards, several dance hits, and notable appearances on film and TV soundtracks to her credit (to say nothing of being a major style icon and a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador). So this Benin-born, New York-based singer-composer has long since gotten past having to prove anything to anybody--other than to herself. On Djin Djin (the title refers to a bell that sounds at daybreak in parts of Africa), she is self-indulgent in the best possible sense, shooting for a big, glossy, super-pop sound that nonetheless remains essentially, even devoutly, African in inspiration and execution. Produced by Tony Visconti (The Moody Blues, T. Rex, David Bowie, Boomtown Rats, and Morrissey), the release is a bewitching amalgam, with guest stints from Joss Stone, Carlos Santana, Branford Marsalis, Josh Groban, Alicia Keys, Peter Gabriel, Malian husband-and-wife team Amadou and Mariam, and noted reggae scion Ziggy Marley. Kidjo, her salty-sweet voice in top form, moves confidently from ballad to club track to homespun earthmover. She never for a second relinquishes control of the festivities, even during a hectic, Haitian-rara-influenced cover of the Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter" and "Lon Lon," in which she takes on--and takes over--French composer Ravel's "Bolero." --Christina Roden

Album Description

With DJIN DJIN (pronounced "gin gin"), Angelique Kidjo returns to the soul of Benin - and, for the first time, shares it with a cast of all-star guests, in a marriage of cultures that has significance far beyond music alone. Inspired by the traditions and culture of Kidjo's native Benin in West Africa, the title of the album refers to the sound of the bell that greets the beginning of a new day for Africa.

The diversity represented by Alicia Keys, Peter Gabriel, Josh Groban, Carlos Santana, Joss Stone, Branford Marsalis, producer Tony Visconti, and the others who contribute to DJIN DJIN speaks to the lesson of this project: For all the differences in the music of our time, the river of Africa flows through it all.

The key was to build DJIN DJIN on a Beninese foundation. The heartbeat, then, comes from percussionists Crespin Kpitiki and Benoit Avihoue, both members of Benin's Gangbé Brass Band. Details of their country's rhythmic heritage, specific in some cases to individual villages, feed the rhythms they lay down throughout the album.

To this mix Kidjo welcomes players whose backgrounds complement the idea of DJIN DJIN: drummer Poogie Bell, known for his work with Erykah Badu and Chaka Khan; funk keyboard wizard Amp Fiddler, whose credits include Prince and George Clinton; Larry Campbell, whose multi-instrumental work has adorned the music of Bob Dylan, Emmylou Harris, and Paul Simon; Senegalese bass giant Habib Faye, a fixture with Youssou N'Dour; guitarists Lionel Loueke, from jazz legend Herbie Hancock's band; Romero Lubambo, a Brazilian wonder whose credits include Diana Krall and Dianne Reeves; Joao Mota, from Guinea-Bissau and kora master Mamadou Diabate.

Produced by Tony Visconti. (David Bowie, T. Rex, Morrissey)

Customer Reviews:

Maybe 4.5 stars, but still stellar.......2007-07-01

Angelique Kidjo's amazing whether she's covering Hendrix in "VooDoo Child" or singing West African tunes. Her roots are much wider than just her country of origin. It'd be hard for me to name a favorite among these gems. I love the people she's selected to work with. "Gimme Shelter" with Joss Stone may be the kind of duet that's going to propel her right up to the top of the charts where she belongs. Smart move, lady, for sure, but I also love the songs where Angelique sings her own music alone.

Soulful West African soul.......2007-06-22

Angelique Kidjo is one of those rare artists who has the Midas touch. No matter who she's performing with, no matter what she's performing, she makes beautiful music. While "Djin Djin" can be considered one of her more mainstream albums, she still proudly shows her African roots. In a sense,it's not surprising it's sold alongside coffee at Starbucks; "Djin Djin" is as potent as a cup of steaming java.

The opening "Ae Ae" is anthemic;it's a power ballad in which Kidjo calls on her fellow Africans to be self-sufficient. The title track is a jazzy collaboration with Alicia Keys and Branford Marsalis. It's Benin meets the Big Easy. Kidjo does an amazing cover of the Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter" with Joss Stone. The '60s British Invasion gets an African makeover,transforming it into a tribal rave-up. Kidjo and smoky-voiced Peter Gabriel complement each other in "Salala." A thumb piano gives "Senamou" a deeply African flavor. "Sedjedo", a duet with reggae heir Ziggy Marley, doesn't quite work. Marley is relegated to the sidelines. However, Kidjo's rousing singing saves the piece. The same goes for "Pearls." Josh Groban's operatic voice is unsuited to the style of the song. It's Afropop meets Latin rock (since Carlos Santana plays the guitar),not the Three Tenors or Il Divo. Kidjo's amazing singing again saves the song from becoming a novelty song. In "Papa","Arouna","Awan N'La","Emma" and "Mama Golo Papa" Kidjo shows she doesn't need collaborators. She's still going strong since her debut in 1990. She covers difficult issues such as marital conflict and divorce soulfully. Finally, in "Lonlon" Kidjo transforms Ravel's annoying and overplayed "Bolero" into rousing,toe-tapping Afropop. Instead of being filler or a song worth skipping, "Lonlon" serves as a grand finale.

Angelique Kidjo is accomplished,as a person and as an artist. She is a UN Goodwill Ambassador;she has her own charity,Batonga. In Bono's guest-edited issue of "Vanity Fair" about Africa, Harry Belafonte praises her activism. Angelique Kidjo's music is truly angelic. "Djin Djin" is a great introduction to her music, and is a perfect mainstream introduction to African music. It's as rousing and flavorful as a good hot cup of coffee.

First Introduction To Angelique Kidjo.......2007-06-20

This is my first introduction to any of Angelique Kidjo's music. I bought this compact disc for myself as a birthday present based on the reviews it has received and listening to the short musical segments found on Amazon.Com.





After recently listening to "Djin, Djin" on a 4 hour road trip, I feel in love with the music & lyrics! The music is fantastic and varied from song to song.... Angelique Kidjo is phenomenal as an artist. I also enjoyed the musical guests performing on "Djin, Djin" too. This compact disc is perfect as background music while long distance driving, at home relaxing, during dinner parties, etc.

Not as good as Black Ivory Soul - but still enhoyable.......2007-06-11

This is a good release, with many guests on it, but not quite as accessable as the Black Ivory Soul CD. However, it will get you up and moving.

Who Knows?.......2007-06-08

I would love to review this CD by never received my order from Amazon. Nor have I received a credit either. I doubt I will ever order anything from Amazon again.

Average customer rating: 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 General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Algeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music Egypt | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Arabic | Middle East | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Arabic Groove Desert Roses & Arabian Rhythms II Desert Roses and Arabian Rhythms, Vol. 3 Moroccan Spirit 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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Average customer rating: The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra needs a guitar player! Persuaders Theme! A Variety Of Classics! Incredible Barry Collection " one of cinema's greatest composers...John Barry"

John Barry: The Collection Manufacturer: Silva America ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Soundtracks | Box Sets | Stores | Music General | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Music of John Williams: 40 Years of Film Music Jerry Goldsmith: 40 Years of Film Music Beyondness of Things The Essential Elmer Bernstein Film Music Collection Eternal Echoes ASIN: B00005BADD Release Date: 2001-05-22

Tracks:

1. Zulu
2. From Russia With Love
3. From Russia With Love - 007
4. Goldfinger
5. The Ipcress File
6. The Knack
7. Mister Moses
8. Thunderball
9. The Wrong Box
10. Born Free
11. The Quiller Memorandum
12. You Only Live Twice
13. The Girl With The Sun In Her Hair
14. Deadfall

Tracks:

1. The Lion In Winter
2. On Her Majesty's Secret Service
3. On Her Majesty's Secret Service
4. Midnight Cowboy
5. Midnight Cowboy
6. The Appointment
7. The Last Valley
8. Walkabout
9. Monte Walsh
10. Diamonds Are Forever
11. The Persuaders
12. Mary Queen Of Scots
13. The Man With The Golden Gun
14. The Dove

Tracks:

1. The Tamarind Seed
2. King Kong
3. Eleanor And Franklin
4. Robin And Marian
5. The Deep
6. Hanover Street
7. The Black Hole
8. Moonraker
9. Somewhere In Time
10. Raise The Titanic
11. Body Heat
12. Frances
13. Octopussy
14. The Cotton Club

Tracks:

1. High Road To China
2. A View To A Kill
3. Out Of Africa
4. The Living Daylights
5. Dances With Wolves
6. Dances With Wolves
7. Chaplin
8. Moviola
9. Indecent Proposal
10. The Specialist
11. The Scarlet Letter
12. Cry The Beloved Country
13. Mercury Rising
14. The James Bond Theme

Customer Reviews:

The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra needs a guitar player!.......2006-11-09

Granted, they only need it for one composition (the last one, "The James Bond Theme") but still, without the guitar it's just not the same. Barry didn't compose this one so I suppose it was a bonus and I shouldn't complain, really. The rest of the music on all the CDs is fantastic. Some of the stuff I had heard before without realizing who had composed it. Very enjoyable, to say the least.

Persuaders Theme!.......2006-03-02

Buy it for the Persuaders theme, probably the best TV theme song ever written.

A Variety Of Classics!.......2005-12-06

John Barry has been composing film scores for over forty years and this is only scratching the surface of his productions. Never mind that the entire set is recorded by the Prague Philharmonic; it's pure to Barry's themes. While John Williams compositions ("Star Wars", etc.) are wild and flamboyant and Jerry Goldsmith's (Hoosier's, etc.) are mood pieces, John Barry crosses over all barriers and is amazingly diverse. Barry has recorded most of the exciting James Bond themes, melodramatic classics like "The Lion In Winter' and moody theme hits like "Midnight Cowboy". He also tugs at the heartstrings with compositions from, "Somewhere In Time", "Frances" and "Out Of Africa". He varies his themes for all types of films and few composers capture it so well.

There is over four hours of music in this set with a colorful and informative booklet.

Incredible Barry Collection.......2004-03-11

Any fan of movies will absolutley love this collection. Being a movie buff I couldn't wait to get this boxed set. Knowing Barry from all the James Bond movies, I did not realize his involvement with so many others. The orchestra is magnificent in all these themes. I'm listening to "High Road to China" right now and I'm drifting in the clouds in a Tiger Moth with Tom Selleck and Bess Armstrong. If you are familiar with a movie it will definitely have you seeing it again, if not the scores are still beautiful. Any fan of classical music will be pleased as well. Travellers will defintitely enjoy it for a long drive. I know from when I use to travel that music like this made the miles float by faster. I highly recommend these four CDs even if you just know a handful of the songs.

" one of cinema's greatest composers...John Barry".......2001-07-06

This collection of four compact discs...are worth their weight in GOLD! Barry creates visual moods for each film he scores...romantic, sentimental, action, adventure, suspense and mystery...the list could go on. Strings, brass and lush-velvet arrangements overlay each cue in his distinctive style of legendary scoring...we have ~ "John Barry:The Collection", Silva Screen's release traces 40 years of film music, featuring "The City Of Prague Philarmonic Orchestra" ~ conducted by Mr. Nic Raine (outstanding)..."Crouch End Festival Chorus" ~ David Temple, Choir Master...perform 56 selections, over four hours of symphonic suites with a full orchestra sound...all individually wrapped-up into one neat package...just the way "film-score-buffs" like 'em!

Must ask the following to take a bow ~ James Fitzpatrick (compilation producer), always in their pitching, Reynold da Silva (executive producer), Nic Raine (conductor, arranger, orchestrator & associate producer), a tremen!dous asset to every project he undertakes...and the man who made it all possible...a legendary icon always leading the way in film scoring ~ JOHN BARRY!

Total Time: 258:76 on 56 Tracks ~ SSD-1128 ~ (2001)

You might try other albums from Silva Screen, all worthy of a good listen ~ "The Essential James Bond" (SSD-1034)..."Bond:Back In Action" (SSD-1100)..."Bond:Back In Action 2" (SSD-1119)..."Zulu" (SSD-1095)..."Raise The Titanic" (SSD-1102)..."Walkabout" (SSD-1120)...check out my reviews on amazon.com/music.

Average customer rating:

Urban Africa Club Various Artists Manufacturer: Out Here Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Africa | Compilations | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: African Pearls, Vol. 1: Rumba on the River Authenticite - The Syliphone Years: Orchestres Nationaux and Federaux 1965-1980 Nu Med Danc-Eh-Sa Bokoor Beats Afro Beat @ Highlife ASIN: B000KCI7F8 Release Date: 2007-01-30

Tracks:

1. Bhambatha - Zola
2. Exile - Lord Ekomy N'Dong, Sally Nyolo
3. Soobax - K'Naan
4. Nikusaidiaje - Ferooz, Prof. Jay
5. Atoti, Pt. 2 - Gidigidimajimaji
6. Champion No Easy [RMX] - King Ayisoba, Batman
7. Msimu Kwa Msimu - X Plastaz
8. One Time - Menshan, Peter Miles
9. Besin - Abortion Squad, V.I.P
10. When My Heat Drops - D-Lane, Scientific
11. Douta Mbaye - Alif
12. Mikasi - Mangwea
13. So Ruff - Necessary Noize
14. Jamais Vu - Didier Awadi

Average customer rating: LOVE IT "AYE" IS ANGELIQUE KIDJO'S SUPREME ACHIEVEMENT Tribal Pop??? Exuberant, colourful! A sure cure for boredom and bad days...

Aye Angélique Kidjo Manufacturer: Fontana Island ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Benin | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Oyaya! Black Ivory Soul Keep on Moving-Best of Angelique Kidjo Djin Djin Logozo ASIN: B000003QLB Release Date: 1994-03-08

Tracks:

1. Agolo
2. Adouma
3. Azan Nan Kpe
4. Tatchedogbe
5. Djan - Djan
6. Lon Lon Vadjor
7. Houngbati
8. Idje - Idje
9. Yemandja
10. Tombo

Amazon.com

Angélique Kidjo's high-powered soprano and stage charisma have carried the diminutive singer far from her native country of Bénin. She recorded her first solo album in Paris, her second in Miami, and her new one, Ayé in London with Soul II Soul's Will Mowat as one producer and in Minneapolis with Prince sidekick David Z. as the other. Kidjo sings in Fon and Yoruba (West African languages), but both producers as well as her cowriter Jean Hébrail reinforce her African rhythms with programmed drums and synths. The result is neither African music nor Anglo-American pop but a strange hybrid that contains some of the most exciting dance music anywhere today.

African purists will be annoyed that Mowat and Z. have pushed Kidjo even further from her roots than before. American dance club denizens will be bothered that they can't understand what she's singing (the translations in the CD booklet for Ayé suggest they aren't missing much--mere platitudes about optimism, tolerance, the homeless, love and God). Americans may also be thrown by the skipping polyrhythms of Kidjo's music, so different from the fat, on-the-one funk they're used to. Yet it's Kidjo's ability to sing strong and hard (with a little sizzle in her timbre as the notes trail off) even as she skips effortlessly through the polyrhythms that makes her sound so fresh. Her triumph is not the breakthrough of real Sub-Saharan music but of a new international pop that marries West African beats to the technology of the Western dance record. --Geoffrey Himes

Customer Reviews:

LOVE IT.......2006-06-08

i love each and every one of the songs on the album. i kept playing it over and over again, almost ruin the CD. she stayed true to her African soul and that is what music is about, staying true to your roots.

"AYE" IS ANGELIQUE KIDJO'S SUPREME ACHIEVEMENT.......2005-12-02

Angelique Kidjo's CD "Aye," in my humble opinion, is her greatest work. In it, she creates a bright Afro-pop sound that dominates the entire CD. The lead song "Agolo" is an upbeat, energetic dance number that is catchy. The video for "Agolo" was nominated for a Grammy Award. The harder-edged "Adouma" and the expansive, soaring "Djan-Djan" help mix things up, making "Aye" an adventurous listening experience.

Here is some background on Angelique Kidjo: She was born, one of nine children, in the village of Ouidah in the little West African country of Benin. Her father is a musician, her mother a clothes merchant and director of a large dance troupe. Angelique began to sing and dance at the age of six. One of her older brothers introduced her at an early age to western rock, such as The Stones, Jimi Hendrix, James Brown and Aretha Franklin. She also was exposed to jazz, Arabic and Pakistani music in addition to church music. She began to sing in a band called Sphinx, which became popular and won several local competitions. In 1980 she moved to Paris and enrolled at music school, learning classical French songs and jazz. Thereafter she studied under the jazz singer Joy Kane for two years, something that had a strong influence on her later career and helped develop further her powerful and deep voice, as well as her rhythm and precision. In 1984 she participated in a tour with Radio France in West Africa. During this time she made several recordings in France and The Netherlands, before being discovered by Chris Blackwell of Island Records.

If you enjoy World music or are just curious about it, "Aye" is a perfect choice. It's Afro-pop sound is infectious and has just enough of an American pop flavor to win over the most fickle listener. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Tribal Pop???.......2001-05-10

She has a beautiful crisp voice and this CD is got some great percusion which realy compliments the African lyrics. There is a remix of Agolo(the 1st track). I'm not sure who remixed it but I have it on a DJ mix tape and it's a hot dance beat worth looking for...

Exuberant, colourful!.......2000-10-23

What a collection of sounds and rhythms! I remember seeing Angelique in concert; she at one point invited all the children in the hall to come up on stage and dance. Every time I listen, it seems that we humans might just be able to live on earth together after all. One of my favourite CD's.

A sure cure for boredom and bad days..........2000-05-09

This album has the capacity to make a vast variety of people stop and listen to it; "Agolo" in particular is one of those rare pieces of contemporary music that can improve the atmosphere of many a situation and you might find yourself thinking of and trying to hum or shout the melody yourself.

Translations are included in the notes, but even without knowledge of what Kidjo is singing about, the melodies, percussion and bass have been designed to endure and stand on their own and they do so beautifully.

Average customer rating: 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 General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Algeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Khaled N'ssi N'ssi Ya-Rayi Kenza 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:

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.

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.

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.

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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!

Average customer rating: 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 General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Algeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Khaled Sahra The Fifth Element: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Ya-Rayi 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:

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!)

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!

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

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.

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!

Average customer rating: Modern and traditional Senegalese styles

Lam Toro Baaba Maal Manufacturer: Palm Pictures (Audio ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Senegal & Gambia | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Baayo Djam Leelii Vento de Maio Femi Kuti Nomad Soul ASIN: B00008OLYC Release Date: 2003-04-08

Tracks:

1. Hamady Boiro (Yelle)
2. Daande Lenol
3. Lem Gi
4. Ndelorel
5. Yela
6. Toro
7. Danibe
8. Olel
9. Sy Sawande
10. Hamady Bogle

Customer Reviews:

Modern and traditional Senegalese styles.......2003-09-27

On this great album sung mainly in the Fulani language, Baaba Maal performs both traditional Senegalese music and his own particular modern fusion of rock and reggae rhythms with traditional styles.

The first track, Hamady Boiro, is a stunning song in English on which Maal introduces his country Senegal, its history and his type of music which is called Yella, over a hopping, skipping beat. This is a very catchy song and my favorite track on the album.

Daande Lenol is a slow soulful ballad with soaring lead vocal, moody backing vocals and polyrhythmic percussion, whilst Lem Gi is a structurally complex number with stuttering beats, impressive percussive twists and wailing vocals.

Ndelorel with its catchy melody and lilting rhythm has a more Jamaican dancehall orientation again and some gorgeous interaction between the lead and backing vocals whilst the song Yela also has some amazing call and response vocals over a slower atmospheric backing.

Toro has a more traditional Senegalese feel in the griot style as found in the work of artists like Yousou N'Dour, with fascinating vocal improvisation. Danibe has the same griot vocal style and beautiful jangling string instruments. Hamady Bogle is a reprise of the catchy opening number.

Lam Toro is a classic of African music, provides a great introduction to the various musical styles of Senegal and is surprisingly accessible to the Western ear.

Average customer rating: the best rai and khaled cd FOREVER Great Music Khaled Has Soul! Khaled is awesome! Khaled is the undisputed King of Rai!!!

Khaled Khaled Manufacturer: Fontana Polydor ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Algeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sahra N'ssi N'ssi Ya-Rayi Kenza 1, 2, 3 Soleils ASIN: B000005HU0 Release Date: 1994-03-31

Tracks:

1. Didi
2. El Arbi
3. Wahrane
4. Ragda
5. El Ghatli
6. Liah Liah
7. Mauvais Sang
8. Braya
9. Ne M'en Voulez Pas
10. Sbabi
11. Harai Harai

Amazon.com

This was the first "post-Cheb" Khaled recording, trimming down the Cheb Khaled name while beefing up his accessibility to the French, and soon American, pop music markets. Under the production wings of Don Was, the funk master, and Michael Brook, the mood maker, he expanded from the cheesy synth-and-drum machine sound of street level rai and made his first bid for international stardom. It's a mixed bag, with a few songs finding new turf for the gritty rai sound and mixing it up with some real American R&B. He tosses in some nice flamenco and Moroccan touches here and there, as well. Many others fail to capture either the raw energy of Algerian pop or Khaled's growing pop sophistication. --Louis Gibson

Customer Reviews:

the best rai and khaled cd FOREVER.......2005-10-07

although i bought this cd long time ago, i still feel it's just new every time i listen to it, there is DiDi needs no introduction, and all the other songs i feel that they are like masterpieces...........

Great Music.......2005-08-24

I was introduced to Khaled during my trip to India in 1992. This is one of the best albums I have listened to. Track 2 is very addictive as well as the album.

Khaled Has Soul!.......2005-05-05

I've been listening to Khaled since his "Cheb" days. While I'm kinda partial to his early stuff, I really like this CD. "Mauvais Sang" and "El Arbi" are just two of its gems. The whole CD is exotic - with western touches and lots of electricity! What a jolt! And Khaled's voice is so soulful and passionate - like no other in rai music. I listen to this CD while I exercise. It makes for an enjoyable workout that goes by quickly! Get this CD while you can!:)

Khaled is awesome!.......2001-12-02

Khaled is my favorite rai artist ever! I first discovered rai when my mom bought a CD with various rai and other north african artists, I started to LOVE algerian rai!!! Mauvauis Sang is soooooo cool.

Khaled is the undisputed King of Rai!!!.......2001-05-16

Man, you gotta buy this album just for the song "El Arbi". It has to be one the most beautiful and haunting pieces of music ever, and easily one of Khaled's best songs. Khaled caused a sensation in India when this album was released, and it is here that maximum sales of this album was recorded, owing to the tremendously successful "Didi". A must buy album if one is a fan of Rai music, and who better to buy, than Khaled!!!

Average customer rating: Ms. Kidjo is the new Grace Jones? Consistently Strong Fantastic Piece of Music

Fifa Angélique Kidjo Manufacturer: Mango ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music Benin | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Aye Logozo Oyaya! Black Ivory Soul Oremi ASIN: B000003QLK Release Date: 1996-03-19

Tracks:

1. The Sound Of The Drums
2. Wombo Lombo
3. Welcome
4. Shango
5. Bitchifi
6. Rifa
7. Goddess Of The Sea
8. Akwaba
9. Koro-Koro
10. Naima

Amazon.com

Kidjo takes further strides from African tradition to western soul-pop with the star-studded, 10-track Fifa. The diminutive diva from Benin with the big voice may offend some with her perceived "sellout," but she answers in turn that western pop is a worldwide phenomenon--and she is not afraid to assimilate it into her own music. With stars like Ray Lema and Jacob Desvarieux backing her up, Kidjo determinedly goes where she wants. Underneath the glossy beats of tracks like "Wombo Lombo," "Welcome," and "Koro Koro" lies a canny use of traditional structures and motifs. Kidjo can also handle pure African ballads like "Naima" (with guitar work from Carlos Santana), but her ability to marry music forms has hindered the efforts of the marketing folks, confused by an artist with feet so firmly planted on both sides of the aisle. --Derek Rath

Customer Reviews:

Ms. Kidjo is the new Grace Jones?.......2001-05-10

Grace Jones in style but holding down her own in an African cultural flavor. The tracks where the percusion is heavy and the lyrics are chanty and rhythmic are the standouts. Her voice is soothing to listen to in the melodic Fon & Yoruba languages...

Consistently Strong.......1999-06-10

After several listenings, this CD has keeps growing on me. There are several songs here that exude emotion and sensibility. This is one talented lady and deserves all the attention she gets in the US. This album, no doubt, will be considered a classic. (5 Stars)

Fantastic Piece of Music.......1999-01-18

Angelique Kidjo has succeeded in giving African Music a definite European feeling, she has re-inforced my belief that African Music is a Universal one. This is a good one coming from her, she should keep the flag flying.

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