Halim

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
On previous solo outings, and in her work with Transglobal Underground and Jah Wobble, the sultry Natacha Atlas has adapted her voice to music from all over the globe. Her heart--and background--is very much in the Middle East, and on Halim she's made her own Middle Eastern record. It's not traditional, by any means, but it's in the tradition: songs of love and spirit. In terms of arrangements there are plenty of concessions to the West, but there's absolutely no doubt where it's all rooted. This is all for the best. Atlas is a world-class singer, but on these songs she can really let herself go, reach back into herself and squeeze out every ounce of emotion. The centerpiece, though, is "Ya Ahli Ehda," recorded in Cairo with an Egyptian orchestra, where you can almost feel the dry heat in your face. It's saying a great deal, but Halim might be the most potent record steeped in the past of the eastern Mediterranean since Ofra Haza's Fifty Gates of Wisdom. It's that good. --Chris Nickson

Halim,Natacha Atlas,Koch Records,Arabic,Club/Dance,Dance Music,Int'l & World Music,Pop
Halim
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Perfect for 1001 Nights
  • Halim is Sweeter than Any Sweets!
  • Worth it for "Gafsa" alone
  • Doesn't Blow My Skirt Up
  • Natacha's BEST album ever!!!!!
Halim
Natacha Atlas
Manufacturer: Beggars UK - Ada
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

AmbientAmbient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B00004UAVW
Release Date: 2000-07-18

Tracks:

  1. Marifnaash
  2. Moustahil
  3. Amulet
  4. Leyli
  5. Kidda
  6. Sweeter Than Any Sweets
  7. Ya Weledi
  8. Enogoom Wil, Amar
  9. Andeel
  10. Gafsa
  11. Y Albi Ehda
  12. Agib

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Perfect for 1001 Nights.......2007-02-16

I first heard Natacha Atlas' amazing "Kidda" on Putumayo's "Arabic Groove" compilation and felt inspired to get the whole "Halim" album.I wasn't disappointed.As a whole,"Halim" shows that Natacha Atlas is the Middle East's Madonna,blending Arabic flavors with dance pop.

The opening,"Marifnaash" is electrifying.It evokes a vast desert,and Justin Adams is stunning on electric guitar."Moustahil" is an enchanting,sensuous love song."Amulet" is deeply rhythmic,and Atlas collaborates powerfully with the Morroccan boy band Sawt el Atlas."Kidda",the evocative,wailing song of unrequited love,is the highlight of "Halim." The electric guitar riffs that open "Ya Weledi" sound like they're from a James Bond soundtrack.The song has wonderful instrumentation-Atlas gives its prominence,making her voice merely the accompaniment."Enogoom Wil Amar" is unearthly,filled with mystery like the ruins at Petra in its opening-then it becomes intense,rhythmic music perfect for a sweaty dancefloor.

"Halim" is a great introduction to Middle Eastern music.If you enjoy Arabic music,or want to listen to something different,"Halim" is perfect!

5 out of 5 stars Halim is Sweeter than Any Sweets!.......2006-12-26


I was first introduced to Natacha Atlas over the summer of 2006 through Amazon's free music download section, in which I downloaded "Mish Fadilak" from her fourth album, Ayeshteni (which I highly recommend). Since then I have purchased seven of her albums in addition to most of the TransGlobal Underground and Jah Wobble songs that showcase her incredible voice. The first album I bought was Halim, which is Natacha's best in my opinion. Diaspora (first album) and Gedida (third album) are not far behind, but Halim stands out as having the most incredible and creative arrangement of songs. Diaspora is more ambient dub, while Gedida is largely influenced by Arabic pop and R&B. Sung entirely in Arabic, Halim is a perfect balance of ambience/electronic, R&B, Arabic pop, and traditional Middle Eastern medleys. And the album artwork is beautiful in itself, showcasing Egyptian wall paintings, in which, according to the liner notes, Natacha Atlas had a hand.

Marifnaash, Moustahil, Amulet, and Kidda are great pop songs, all of which feature shuffling dancebeats along with indigenous instruments such as oud and dharabuka. In Amulet, which you can view on YouTube, Natacha Atlas is backed by energetic vocals from Sawt el Atlas. Belly dancers will delight in Leyli, Ya Weledi, and Enogoom Wil Amar (an outstanding song with lush Middle Eastern arrangements). Ya Weledi has a marching rythm with beautiful Middle Eastern combinations, and the more classical Ya Albi Ehda is reminiscent of the legendary Fairuz. The R&B-influenced arrangements include Sweeter than Any Sweets and Agib, in which Atlas' snake-charmed voice arrests the senses. The lyrics of Andeel speak for the song itself: "As intoxicating as full bodied wine/ As essential as the blood that runs through my veins..." Andeel, with its ambient Middle Eastern allure, is indeed intoxicating and Natacha's well-conditioned voice "stirs the patina of emotions/ That lie in another world..." Andeel is truly my favorite on the album. Gafsa is the mellowest song, in which Natacha's voice is beautiful and longing. All of the songs are delightfully poetic. Here is a sample of Enogoom Wil Amar taken from the liner notes, which include lyrical snippets in English from nine of the songs:

I miss you
My love burns to see you again
I keep company with the stars
And the moon and the bitter sweet night
And there is a magic to my life
Made by you

Halim is an overall amazing album that deserves widespread recognition. I highly recommend this album to anyone who loves Arabic pop, traditional Middle Eastern, and electronic music.

5 out of 5 stars Worth it for "Gafsa" alone.......2006-01-30

I first came upon this album through the film "3-Iron" by the Korean director Kim Ki-duk. The song "Gafsa" plays a prominent role in that film.

I like both Middle Eastern vocals and electronic dance music--I'm just not sure how much I like the two TOGETHER. Atlas has a very sensual voice and knows how to use it. Most of the tracks on this album are decent, if not especially memorable.

"Gafsa," however, is in my mind a strong contender to be one of the most beautiful songs ever. A heartrending melody, exquisitely sung, with an acoustic arrangement that's nothing short of perfection. I could listen to this song forever and never get tired of it.

2 out of 5 stars Doesn't Blow My Skirt Up.......2005-08-22

I study Middle Eastern dance and Natacha Atlas came highly recommended within my dancing circles. While she is, unarguably, a fine and passioante vocalist this album does not appear to be her best work. I plan to give some others a listen, but would recommend anyone into the Egyptian music scene to start their collection elsewhere.

5 out of 5 stars Natacha's BEST album ever!!!!!.......2004-10-24

For all Natacha Atlas fans, this is the cd to get. I listen to it wherever i go, X-country meets to hour-long plane trips. Her style is remarkable in this album. A must-have for a Natacha Atlas Collection!
Anthology of Noise & Electronic Music, Vol. 4
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Legal Stuff Apart
  • Pieces you can't find anywhere else but the other reviews are right too
  • Copyright
  • Unauthorized release
Anthology of Noise & Electronic Music, Vol. 4

Manufacturer: Sub Rosa
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Ligeti, György | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000EBEJKW
Release Date: 2006-03-21

Tracks:

  1. Wire Recorder Piece
  2. Pi ectronique No. 3
  3. Mutations
  4. Demeures Aquatiques
  5. Vox
  6. Sediment
  7. Pendulum Music
  8. Marfa Mix
  9. Ressac 4
  10. Sea-Food
  11. Unyoga
  12. Funktion Grau

Tracks:

  1. Broken Music Composition
  2. Fucked Up and Naked
  3. Weaving the Magic
  4. River Blindness
  5. Still and Moving Lines of Silence in Families of Hyperbolas: Voice
  6. Circa 1901
  7. Still Warm
  8. It
  9. Present Time Exercises
  10. Air Attack Over Kabul Airfield [Part of the War/Noise Series]
  11. Abruitisme Dynamique/Simultanenne
  12. Oraison

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Legal Stuff Apart.......2007-04-21

Some of the music on this series is so weird and beautiful that the composers should be gratefull that it is released here. They should think of this series as a sampler which might atract us, the general public, into further investigation of their work, which we most probably would have never had the chance to hear it or become aware of its existence or of the compsers/artists. Don't be so greedy... for I believe you have been done a favor. The same goes for the other volumes of this series. TWO THUMBS UP!

3 out of 5 stars Pieces you can't find anywhere else but the other reviews are right too.......2006-12-29

These are historic musical works some of which have never been made available to the public and are not available anywhere else. But the other reviews are correct, that the label is not doing right by the artists.

Sub Rosa Records was very friendly up until I sent them the master tape they had requested. When they said they wanted to use it I asked to be sent their license agreement. I never heard from them again. No license but they put my piece out on cd anyway. I asked a couple of times again but each time got no reply.

I doubt that anyone else with music in this cd series has received any royalties for the use of their work or will. We do, however, get to know that people are listening to our music, and that, not money, is what probably just about all of us created this music for. Someone without any legal right to do so is making money from this music, but the music itself can now be heard.

I'm marking this with 3 stars because that averages the good and bad of this cd set as described here.

- Laurie Spiegel (composer of the piece "Sediment" on this release)

5 out of 5 stars Copyright.......2006-07-06

The compiler of this series always makes great efforts to track down the copyright holders. Rather than leave off tracks for which he can't find the holder they are included in the "interests of art and music history". The text with the CD explains this, and invites that untraceable copyright holders make contact to fix any problems (or take legal action)

Please bear this in mind when considering buying this CD

1 out of 5 stars Unauthorized release.......2006-05-27

This release contains a track by the Egyptian-born U.S. composer Halim El-Dabh which was used without his permission or consent, and for which he is obtaining no royalties. Please take this into consideration when choosing whether to purchase this recording.
World Keys
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent CD
  • Spectacular piano album
  • Very impressive
  • magical debut album
  • This cd is wonderful!
World Keys

Manufacturer: Reference Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Bolcom, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by LisztAll Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Robert SchumannAll Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by ProkofievAll Works by Prokofiev | Prokofiev, Sergei | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000FII2G6
Release Date: 2006-06-13

Tracks:

  1. Sketch On Aksak Rhythm
  2. Sonata No.3 In A Minor, Op.28
  3. La Nuit Du Destin
  4. Sayera
  5. Instants D'un Opera De Pekin
  6. Concert Paraphrase
  7. ...La Belle Rouquine
  8. Nocturnal
  9. So Rashch Wie Moglich
  10. Andantino (Getragen)
  11. Scherzo
  12. Rondo
  13. Kantate

Album Description

"A soaring talent." -LOS ANGELES TIMES "A superb pianist." -BOSTON GLOBE "A versatile and sensitive pianist - an impressive talent." -WASHINGTON POST

Debut album of outstanding young talent Joel Fan, known for his recordings and performances with Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Project. World Keys features rip-roaring performances of crowd-pleasing Schumann, Liszt, and Prokofiev works along with world-premiere recordings of important works by international composers. Fan was a prizewinner of several international competitions, such as the D'Angelo Young Artists International Competition in the U.S. and Italy's Busoni International Competition. The National Foundation for the Arts even named him a Presidential Scholar. In recent seasons, Fan has been performing as a member of Yo-Yo Ma's Silk Road Project, and is featured on the recent award-winning Sony Classical release of music from the Project. Chinese composer Qigang Chen was born in 1951 and started learning music from childhood. When the "Cultural Revolution" broke out in China, he was studying at the Music Middle School of the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing! . His father, administrator of the Beijing Academy of Fine Arts, famous calligrapher and painter, was immediately judged "bourgeois" and "antirevolutionary" and sent to a labor camp. Young Qigang Chen was kept in confinement for three years and underwent "ideological re-education." Yet, his passion for music remained unwavering: he went on learning composition and scoring in spite of social and political anti-cultural pressure. In the mid-eighties, he was given a state grant to study with Olivier Messiaen in France. He became Messiaen's only pupil after the famous composer left the Paris Conservatory. In 2003, Virgin Classics issued the first recording of his orchestral music. Born in Tasmania in 1929, Peter Sculthorpe has become Australia's most eminent classical composer, and his works are regularly performed and recorded throughout the world. Likewise, Peteris Vasks (b. 1946) is the most eminent serious composer in his native land, Latvia, and his works have been widely performed and recorded. William Bolcom (b. 1938) is one of America's most popular and honored composers, having won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1988.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent CD.......2006-06-19

I found this to be one of the best instrumental CD's I've heard in a very long time. The playing, the compositions, the production values make this a CD I will listen to for years to come. I simply love it.

5 out of 5 stars Spectacular piano album.......2006-06-18

This is a thrilling recording. I loved the contrasting styles between romantic playing, driving rhythm, and beautiful melodies. What a find.

5 out of 5 stars Very impressive.......2006-06-14

Really a tour de force. I loved the range and variety of pieces, all performed with such a skilled, knowing touch. Just terrific. I'm looking forward to hearing what Fan does next!

5 out of 5 stars magical debut album.......2006-06-14

Ten thumbs up! I have to say I was hesitant at first when I saw the lineup of composers & pieces I'd never heard of, but I have rarely enjoyed a new classical music album as much as Fan's. The album is dramatic, bold, and poetic, with sweeping musical ideas, the wonder of new pieces from faraway lands, and a shimmering palette of tones. Fan's playing is not only exuberant & elegant; he also has an impeccable technique. From the classics, I particularly loved his interpretation of the Prokofiev Sonata.

5 out of 5 stars This cd is wonderful! .......2006-06-14

I first heard joel fan in connecticut where he played one of rachmaninov's concertos. It was very exciting, so when I heard about this CD I ordered it right away. The music is so contrasting and from different countries. my favorite track is the syrian music, it is dark and romantic.
Crossing into the Electric Magnetic
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Historic Music!
Crossing into the Electric Magnetic

ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Anthology of Noise & Electronic Music, Vol. 4

ASIN: B00005RI8X
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

  1. Electronic Fanfare (with Otto Luening)
  2. Alcibiadis' Monologue to Socrates
  3. Wire Recorder Piece
  4. Michael and the Dragon
  5. Meditation in White Sound
  6. Pirouette
  7. Element, Being, and Primeval
  8. Electronics and the Word
  9. Venice
  10. Leiyla Visitations

Album Description

El-Dabh's work has been released in the past on Columbia Records and Folkways Recordings. “Crossing into the Electric Magnetic”, however, is the most in-depth look at the composer's work that has ever been available to the public.

Many of the pieces were recorded at the Columbia-Princeton Electronic Music Studios in the 1950's, where a number of groundbreaking experiments in electronic music were conducted. There is also material that El-Dabh recorded in a Cairo radio station 1944. The Cairo recordings are arguably the earliest example of manipulated sound recordings in music history.

Unlike a lot of early electronic work, which is often reminiscent of video game sound effects, El-Dabh's work reflects the composer's wide range of musical interests. His music combines Egyptian mythology, feedback, distortion, instruments from several different cultures, environmental recordings, pure electronics, electroacoustics, tape manipulation, and sound sculpture. “Crossing into the Electric Magnetic” also includes El-Dabh's electronic opera and his collaboration with legendary composer, Otto Luening.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Historic Music!.......2007-05-31

El-Dabh's music sounds totally unique from all the other work that the early pioneers of electronic music were doing. Nobody else took such a giant world view. Halim El-Dabh's electronic work combined everything from Native American music to opera to chanting to Egyptian mythology. The result is a fascinating fever dream of sounds and ideas that constantly challenge the listener. This CD also includes some important firsts, including the first tape manipulation piece in music history and the first electronic opera. This is truly historic music!
Halim
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • The Voice Of A Godess
  • Halim- may Natacha sing for 1000 years!
  • Love. The sounds from ones heart. Divinity!
  • Simply not a good Middle Eastern CD.
  • excellent!
Halim
Natacha Atlas
Manufacturer: Koch Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

AmbientAmbient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
World DanceWorld Dance | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
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ArabicArabic | Middle East | International | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000006J66
Release Date: 1998-04-21

Tracks:

  1. Marifnaash
  2. Moustahil
  3. Amulet
  4. Leyli
  5. Kidda
  6. Sweeter Than Any Sweets
  7. Ya Weledi
  8. Enogoom Wil, Amar
  9. Andeel
  10. Gafsa
  11. Y Albi Ehda
  12. Agib

Amazon.com

On previous solo outings, and in her work with Transglobal Underground and Jah Wobble, the sultry Natacha Atlas has adapted her voice to music from all over the globe. Her heart--and background--is very much in the Middle East, and on Halim she's made her own Middle Eastern record. It's not traditional, by any means, but it's in the tradition: songs of love and spirit. In terms of arrangements there are plenty of concessions to the West, but there's absolutely no doubt where it's all rooted. This is all for the best. Atlas is a world-class singer, but on these songs she can really let herself go, reach back into herself and squeeze out every ounce of emotion. The centerpiece, though, is "Ya Ahli Ehda," recorded in Cairo with an Egyptian orchestra, where you can almost feel the dry heat in your face. It's saying a great deal, but Halim might be the most potent record steeped in the past of the eastern Mediterranean since Ofra Haza's Fifty Gates of Wisdom. It's that good. --Chris Nickson

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The Voice Of A Godess.......2000-03-22

Natacha Atlas is born in Belgium on the 20th March 1964 of an English mother and a Jew Egyptian father. She lived during 8 years in the Moroccan suburbs of Brussels where she is immersed in an Arabian and Muslim culture. In 1972, her mother, divorced, took Natacha with her in England... When she is 16 years old, she involved herself in several musical projects and divided her time between England and Belgium. She worked in Arabian and Turkish night clubs as a singer and belly dancer (raq sharki)... She spent a brief stint in a Belgian salsa band called Mandanga. As she shuttled between Northampton and Brussels, however, she began to attract the attention of the Balearic beat crew ¡Loca!, and Jah Wobble, then assembling his Invaders of the heart. In 1991, both these projects bore fruit. Timbal by ¡Loca! started out as a track on Nation Records'Fuse two compilation and became a massive club hit, while Jah Wobble's Rising above Bedlam - five tracks of which Natacha co-wrote - attracted much critical acclaim and a Mercury Awards nomination. The success of Timbal cemented Natacha's relationship with the ground-breaking Nation Records label - label created in order to merge occidental dance music and Indian, Arabic and African musical styles - who introduced her to Transglobal Underground (it is rather a multi-cultural musicians collective that militates in favour of a mixing of all kinds of music than a simple musical group). At that time the group was enjoying Top 40 success with the anthemic Temple head. As chief collaborator, lead singer and belly dancer with Transglobal Underground, Natacha has performed all over the world - playing at Glastonbury, WOMAD, Reading, Phoenix and The Brixton Academy and many international festivals. During the same period, she collaborated with several other musicians, including Apache Indian and Peter Gabriel, and she found enough time to take part in some film soundtracks, for example Stargate, with David Arnold. From 1995, she launched out with the help of Transglobal Underground into a solo career that delights everybody. First success with Diaspora in 1995, converted try in 1997 with Halim, album dedicated to the Egyptian singer Abdel Halim Hafez, uncontested star in the Middle East and whose songs are well known as far as in the Maghreb... In 1999, she dispatches the last recalcitrant people to her charm with Gedida a new great album alike the previous ones and starts a European tour... Natacha's main objective is to conquer the country of which she is fond, source of all her inspirations, her ancestors land: Egypt (Bilaadi)... After several live shows in France, Natacha settled in Cairo in order to win the hearts of Oriental people... She contributed to Jean-Michel Jarre new album (Metamorphoses) with the song C'est la vie. She was present at the great concert in front of the pyramids of Giza on the 31st December 1999. At present Natacha has no plans to do any live shows. She's been doing some TV with Jean-Michel Jarre but otherwise she's staying in Cairo and working on ideas for a new album, which she's hoping to start recording in a month or two.

Laybkig

5 out of 5 stars Halim- may Natacha sing for 1000 years!.......1999-11-13

2) "Halim" (1997)-Natacha Atlas. There is no excuse for not buying this CD-it's crucial to any world music collection! Less dub stuff than her first CD more singable tunes and a more polished CD. Nothing short of brilliant. She can cover everything from classical Arabic singing to modern dance/dub tunes-her range is phenomenal. Too bad she hid in the shadow of TransGlobal Underground and Jah Wobble for so long. If you like this, you should try her first CD and, while you're at it-check out TransGlobal Underground as they aren't slouches either. Jaz Coleman (Killing Joke/Victorious City) co-produced a few tracks, as did some of her cronies at TransGlobal Underground. The cronies are Hamid Mantu, Neil Sparkes, Alex Kasiek and Count Dubulah. Of interest, John Reynolds and Justin Adams also produce a couple of songs for Natacha. They are the same chaps who helped produced Abdel Ali Slimani's "Mraya". Also, Adams and Reynolds were part of Jah Wobble's- "Invaders of the Heart" (1991). The first track, "Marifnaash" has a dash of Middle Eastern flavour to an otherwise 'pop hit' with strings, accordion and a familiar Wobble bass line along with the searing voice of Natacha. The next cut, "Moustahil" starts with snake-charmer sound on clarinet with Hammond organ backing and gradually builds into something that the TransGlobal guys hijack. Natasha's 'youyous' signal the segue into her next megahit and dance hall favourite-"Amulet". "Amulet" is the cut that most likely will be aired on FM stations. This track enjoyed amazing success here in the Middle East. Moreover, this CD continually sells out over here in UAE. Back to more traditional stuff with "Leyli". This is one of my favourites and is done in dub style-"Kidda". I think it should have been called-"Leish, Habibi, Leish". Good darbuka beats, some ney flute, funky bass line and guitar and violin along with Natacha pouring her heart out in the lyrics-"Why, my love, why? " The gong brings closure to this lovely hit. Back to the Maghreb on track 6, "Sweeter than Any Sweets" and you could easily think imagine that you are in Morocco with the drummers of Jajouka for this beginning. Initially, Robbie & Sly dub sounds take over! Then it's Count Dubulah on bass, Cairo stings and oud that follow the melody line as well as Natacha's powerful voice. Don't be fooled by the Sergio Leone beginning to this next one as it is not music for spaghetti westerns. Strangely enough, "Ya Weledi" has a Cheb Hasni feel to it especially the keyboard work and solo part-way through the track. On tracks 8 and 9, I was wondering why this tune was vaguely familiar-it has Jaz Coleman's signature all over it. Check out the "Victorious City" that he co-produced with Anne Dudley and Killing Joke's "Brighter than a 100 Suns". These two songs are quieter than the earlier stuff and Coleman lets Natacha's voice be the commanding instrument. Track 10, "Gafsa" is a powerful, acoustic piece with Natasha's voice, a Spanish guitar, cello and strings. On "Ya Albi Ehda" we go back to classical music style and back to the studio in Egypt. Essam Rashad and his orchestra accompany Atlas on this offering.

5 out of 5 stars Love. The sounds from ones heart. Divinity!.......1999-10-13

Natacha has a beautiful voice. Her every word rings a bell that can be felt in the deepest sea. Words simply cannot express the divinity that is Natacha Atlas's voice. A precious jewel amongst the sand.

2 out of 5 stars Simply not a good Middle Eastern CD........1999-08-14

I'm a fan of both contemporary and traditional Middle Eastern music, and have found this CD to be disappointing on both fronts. It feels muddled and lacks soul. The "folkloric" passages sound forced, and Natacha Atlas' voice can be downright irritating. If you're looking for good Middle Eastern music, this disc is not for you.

5 out of 5 stars excellent!.......1999-06-21

I bought Diaspora some years ago, but have always had trouble listening to it in one go. With this fantastic CD I don't have that problem at all. In fact, I could easily push the repeat button to play it again. A strong ethnic CD, but at the same time very friendly to western ears that hear Arabic music for the first time.
The Best of Abdul Halim Hafiz
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Exotic, Seductive, Fabulous
  • Abdul Halim review
  • It contained all his best songs
The Best of Abdul Halim Hafiz
Hossam Ramzy and His Egyptian Ensemble
Manufacturer: Arc Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  5. The Best of Baladi and Saaidi

ASIN: B000001IFA
Release Date: 1994-06-21

Tracks:

  1. Bahlam Beek
  2. Oqbalal Yom Miladak
  3. Olulu
  4. Ganalhawa
  5. Khusara Khusara
  6. Asmar Yasmarani

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Exotic, Seductive, Fabulous.......2004-05-17

this is a beautiful CD- very exotic, and even though all songs are instrumental, even if you are not dancing to them, every song is rich, enchanting, and intricate enough to hold your attention... and they sound gorgeous when played out loud- their sound takes on a whole new dimension.. this makes for great ambience music- but is so much more than that. really, every song is quality, but my favorites especially are bahlam beek, khusara khusara, and asmar yasmarani, which have charming, infectious melodies. i even believe khusara khusara was sampled by jay-z in one of his songs, because the instant i heard the first few notes, it was unmistakeably familiar!! overall, this album is superb for creating an ethnic, middle eastern atmosphere, and of course, bellydancing :)

5 out of 5 stars Abdul Halim review.......2002-04-24

i am really happy to see that your guys have some type of a CD for the great one Abdul Halim Hafiz. He was one of the great ones
in the arab world. he past away long time ago but his songs are still a live in our hurts. i hope to see more CDs of him later on . keep up the good work. thank you
deab

5 out of 5 stars It contained all his best songs.......1998-07-29

This CD had a lot of good songs that I had not heard in a long time. Definetly great for fanatics and lovers. I loved it.
A Program of Piano Transcriptions
Average customer rating: Not rated
    A Program of Piano Transcriptions

    Manufacturer: Arabesque Recordings
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by BusoniAll Works by Busoni | Busoni, Ferruccio | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by GodowskyAll Works by Godowsky | Godowsky, Leopold | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by LisztAll Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by RachmaninovAll Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    General ContemporaryGeneral Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B000000T7M
    Release Date: 1993-08-11

    Tracks:

    1. Choral Preludes: Ich ruf'zu dirr, Herr
    2. Choral Preludes: Nun Komm'der Heiden Heiland
    3. Choral Preludes: Nun freut euch, lieben Christen
    4. Chant Polonaise, Op.74: No.1 Meine Freuden
    5. Chant Polonaise, Op.74: No.2 Madchens Wunsch
    6. Liebestod From Tristan unf Isolde
    7. Waltz From Faust
    8. Lullaby
    9. Liedesleid
    10. Kunsterleben
    Kariat Al-Fengan
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • A Masterpiece of Arabic Music
    Kariat Al-Fengan
    Abdel Halim Hafez
    Manufacturer: Musicrama/Koch
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    EgyptEgypt | Africa | International | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Middle East | International | Styles | Music
    ArabicArabic | Middle East | International | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B0000DESZP
    Release Date: 2003-05-13

    Tracks:

    1. Kariat Al Fengan [Live]

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars A Masterpiece of Arabic Music.......2006-05-24

    This live recording, "Kariat al-Fengan" ("The Fortune Teller"), was the last song done by Egyptian legend Abdel Halim Hafez and is probably one of his best works as well. In this performance, over an hour long, we are treated to drama, passion and raw emotion that classical Arabic music is so rightly famous for. Hafez is rightly known as one of the greatest classical performers in the Arabic-speaking world, and of his numerous recordings, this CD is as good a place to start as any. The song is one of his most well-known, and well-loved, works. Its a good thing that EMI Arabia has decided to re-release this CD to a wider market. This, and other recordings in their "Arabian Masters" series, are wonderful guides to some of the best Arabic classical music you can find. If you are a lover of classical Arabic music, or Middle Eastern music in general, then I strongly recommend you check out this CD. Even if the EMI release is unavailable, you can still find copies on other labels at most halal grocers, Arabic music stores and the like.
    Anthology 1965 - 1969
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Anthology 1965 - 1969
      Abdel Halim Hafez
      Manufacturer: EMI
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
      World DanceWorld Dance | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
      InternationalInternational | Imports | Stores | Music
      ASIN: B00004TJXW
      Release Date: 2005-05-17

      Tracks:

      1. Fi Sekoun El Leil
      2. Sawah
      3. Ya Mugramin Ya Ashe'Een
      4. Gana Alhawa
      5. Isterad El Talab
      Gana el Hawaa/Ya Khalya A
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Gana el Hawaa/Ya Khalya A
        Abdel Halim Hafez
        Manufacturer: EMI
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | Middle East | International | Styles | Music
        InternationalInternational | Imports | Stores | Music
        ASIN: B00004V7OR

        Tracks:

        1. Gana Alhawa
        2. Ya Khalya Alqalb
        3. Sawah
        4. Al Toba
        5. Elhawa Howaya

        Rock Music:

        1. Inolvidables RCA: 20 Grandes Exitos [Import]
        2. Isopor [Explicit Lyrics] [Import]
        3. Ive Mendes [Import]
        4. Kanyok & Luba [Live]
        5. La Vita Amico E'arte Dell'incontro [Import]
        6. Le Cahier [Box set] [Import]
        7. Les Ambassadeurs Internationales with Salif Keita
        8. Les Incontournables [Import]
        9. Les Plus Belles Chansons De Claude Barzotti [Import]
        10. Les Princes de la Ville [Import]

        Rock Music

        rock music

        Recommended Music:

        Plagiarism

        Read: Toccata Giocosa/Night Flight/Symphony No.4/Los Dioses Aztecas

        Rubinstein, Tcherepnin, Ippolitov-Ivanov: Quintets

        Django's Blues [Live] [Original recording remastered]

        Rupaul's Go-Go Box Classics

        Sunnyside

        Ra Da Bang: Carnival of Rhythm

        Songs You Know by Heart

        Rocks in Head [Original recording remastered] [Import]

        Rising

        Slide [CD-single]

        Night in Paris [Import]

        She's Dangerous [Explicit Lyrics]

        Unforgettable

        1928-1929, Vol. 7