Algeria: Rai [Import]

1. Hob El Adraa

2. Saber Inal

3. Litima

4. Agus

5. Thilleli

6. Ilik Dargaz El Ghida

7. Dub Ezeouedj Ene Bessif

8. Atus

9. El Muth

10. Agus Dub

11. Ezeouedj Ene Bessif

Tracks:

Moi Et Toi - Abdel Ali Slimani
Galbi - Abdy
Leiley (Transglobal Underground Remix) - Dania
Amarain - Amr Diab
Intil Waheeda - Hisham Abbas
Hely Meli - Hamid El Shaeri
Mani - Fadela & Sahraoui
Kidda - Natacha Atlas
Mauvais Sang - Khaled
Ne Me Jugez Pas (Volodia Remix) - Sawt El Atlas
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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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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:

Mon Amie La Rose - Natacha Atlas
La Valse - Faudel
Aalach Tloumouni - Khaled
Inchallah - Latifa
Desert Rose (Melodic Club Mix) - Sting/Cheb Mami
Chie Begam - Andy
I'm Yours - Soraya
Dis Moi Pourquoi - Amina
Hay Wadi Hay Galbi - Cheb Mami
Pomegranate - Trans-Global Underground
Esma Yalli - Hakim
La Titnahad - Kazem Al Saher
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:

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

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Similar Items:

Khaled
Ya-Rayi
N'ssi N'ssi
Kenza
1, 2, 3 Soleils

ASIN: B000001EZ1
Release Date: 1997-05-13

Tracks:

Sahra
Oran Marseille (Khaled & IAM)
Aa (Mixed Version)
Lillah
Ouelli El Darek
Detni Essekra
Walou Walou
Ki Kounti
Wahrane Wahrane
Haya Haya
Mektoubi
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:

Hit the ground dancing
no roots
Incredible!

Layali
Cheb Mami
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Diwan 2
Dellali
Lazrag Saani
Du Sud au Nord
Live au Grand Rex 2004

ASIN: B0009XCD9Y
Release Date: 2006-11-27

Tracks:

Halili
Non G'Sera Non (Dmri Omri)
Gualbi Gualbi
(Leh) Inshallah
Tigi Tigi
Sabran (Ya Ghali)
Gaiye Bil Salama
Ahla Layali Omrina
Ajlissou (Fil Makha)
Nos Couleurs
Ellie Beina Intaha
Alik Maina
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:

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!"

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.

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.

Average customer rating:

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

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Fusion & World Fusion | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Sahra
Khaled
Diwan
Ya-Rayi
Rough Guide to Rai

ASIN: B00005TQ72
Release Date: 2001-12-11

Tracks:

Khalliouni
Menfi
Eray
N'Ssi N'Ssi
Ida
Wahrane Wahrane
Chebba
Abdel Kader
Aicha
Tellement N'Brick
Didi
Ya Rayah
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:

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

1,2,3 soleils.......2006-03-19

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

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.

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!

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.

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

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Similar Items:

Sahra
N'ssi N'ssi
Ya-Rayi
Kenza
1, 2, 3 Soleils

ASIN: B000005HU0
Release Date: 1994-03-31

Tracks:

Didi
El Arbi
Wahrane
Ragda
El Ghatli
Liah Liah
Mauvais Sang
Braya
Ne M'en Voulez Pas
Sbabi
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:

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:

Serbi Serbi
Herbou
Adieu
Chebba
Les Ailes
Alech Tradi
Bakhta
N' Ssi N' Ssi
Zine A Zine
Abdel Kader
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.

Tracks:

Ya Rayah
Ida
Habina
Bent Sahra
Ach Adani
El H'Mame
Enti Rahti
Menfi
Bani Al Insane
Malheureux Toujours
Aiya Aiya

Amazon.com

The second collaboration between Taha, an Algerian living in France, and '70s prog rocker Steve Hillage, Diwan carries forward the old/new hybrid of 1996's Ole Ole. Taha is clearly familiar with ancient Middle Eastern melodies, but he's also comfortable with the dance rhythms of Parisian nightclubs. Traditionalists will find the straightforward melodies and instrumentation of "Habina" and "Ach Adani" the most satisfying, but Diwan's most adventurous track, "Bent Sahra," may be its best. Instead of strings, the song leans heavily on an industrial beat and the hypnotic mantra of a guest female vocalist. Though not for purists, it perfectly captures the urban throb of Paris and the intense dislocation felt by every immigrant. --David Bombeck

Customer Reviews:

The Sexiest Around.......2007-06-08

What music is all about. Ecstatic, passionate, infectious, intelligent. Taha's voix joli-laid is one of the sexiest around.

Let the desert party begin..........2004-02-06

"Diwan" is a really rich album - a great way to introduce others to rai music without losing itself to Western studio overproduction. Some other readers' comments seem confusing to me. 6 minutes too long for a song? Obviously that person isn't familiar with traditional Arabic music where songs can go on for what seem like eons. Of course, "Ya Rayah" is the anchor to this album - the one song (if any of Taha's) that anyone would know, but the other's are just as good. I enjoy the change in tempo and intensity of "Habina", and the good times that "Ida" seems to evoke. Rachid's voice is raw and unmodified, which makes the songs all the more genuine. "Diwan" is definitely a keeper, and also is his most consistent album.

A live recording of ensemble performance.......2004-01-14

Diwan is an impressively showcased and very highly recommended collection of music from the Middle East featuring the inspirational works of the group Rabita Andalusa. Their aim is to preserve the Andalusian-Maghrebi musical style while affirming ties of popular culture to Northern Morocco. A live recording of ensemble performance, Diwan offers an enlightened and captivating treasury of sound, tradition, and creativity. The pieces performed in Diwan include: Mashaliya (1:14), Tuishya (3:50), San'a "Kala Li" (3:03), Taqsim 'ud (0:28), Tuishya (0:55), San'a "Ma Kuntu Hadri" (4:51), Inshad (2:33), Tuishya (1:28), San'a "Ya Wahida" (5:57), San'a "Neddemem Wa Nakhda" (5:03), Taqsim qanun (1:20), Mawal (1:19), Taqsim 'ud (0:45), Mawal (1:01), Insiraf Sha'abi (7:31), Bint Bladi (8:32) and Habiba u Jarrahtini (5:50).

Rai uno!.......2003-10-28

I had no idea what to expect when I purchased "Diwan" in cassette format several years ago. It had been highly recommended in the hi-tech mag "Wired", and, being interested in world music, I decided to take a chance.

I've now just about worn it out, having listened to it countless times. With "Diwan" in my pocket I go out for a brisk two-mile walk every evening and this guy rocks! And I rock as I walk, snapping my fingers to the infectious beat. It's fantastic music and I defy anyone to keep still once they hear it!

The Carlos Vives of Rai.......2002-11-30

This cd contains the great Arabic classics of the past but they are done in a very modern way albeit folkloric. Think of this cd like the Carlos Vives of Arabic music.

Average customer rating:

Khaled is a musical genius
Beautiful, romantic music!
One of the best albums of the year
A rousing, exuberant expression of passion...
A true masterpiece!

Ya-Rayi
Khaled
Manufacturer: Umvd Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Algeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music

General | Africa | International | Styles | Music

General | International | Styles | Music

International | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Khaled
Sahra
Kenza
N'ssi N'ssi
Aiysha

ASIN: B0002UNQQI
Release Date: 2004-09-06

Tracks:

Ya-Rayi (Oh My!)
Love to the People
Ya Galbi (Oh My Heart)
H'mama (The Dove)
Hagda (This Way)
Yema Yema (Mommy)
Ensa el Hem (Forget Your Worries)
Ghira (The Jealous One)
Lemen (Trust)
Mani Hani (I Am Not at Peace When She Is Away)
Love to the People [Arabic]
H'mam (The Birds) [Imhotep Remix]

Customer Reviews:

Khaled is a musical genius.......2005-12-21

If you've never experienced Khaled, don't miss out. He is an extraordinary talent, blending musical styles native to his Algeria with hip-hop, funk and other genres. The variety on each album is also fantastic. His album Sahra may be his most accessible to Western ears, but this album as well as numerous others are well worth purchasing.

Beautiful, romantic music!.......2005-06-25

When I bought "Ya-Rayi," I wasn't sure I would like it, but hey! It was a "Khaled" CD. I was introduced to Cheb Khaled in the late 80's. That being the case, I was concerned that this recording would sound too western and loungey, like something you'd hear in a Las Vegas show. Well, it is palatable to the western ear, but more than that, it's got amazing draw. The young Khaled's early roots are still evident in many of the tracks, but in a different, more polished presentation that I believe most will appreciate. My favorite songs are "Ya Galbi" and "Hagda." I find myself listening to "Hagda" and then replaying it- over and over. That song is so passionate - it brings chills to my spine. And I love the accordion and the Egyptian strings featured in many of the tracks. The only downside - I wish the lyrics printed in Arabic on the CD insert were also translated in English. Bottom line: This is a CD you'll want to own. You will cherish it as one of Khaled's best.

One of the best albums of the year.......2005-02-25

This album is simply beautiful, and stylistically is all over the map. It opens with the cabaret-esque "Mani Hani" and from there each track seems to get better and better. My favorites include the unstoppable dance floor cut "Yema Yema" and the album's true highlight, the masterpiece that is "H'Mama," which starts as a traditional Middle Eastern piece and ends as a driving, relentless multi-layered extravaganza. Bravo, Cheb Khaled! Thanks for the remix of "El-H'mam," which is included in some versions of the album.

A rousing, exuberant expression of passion..........2004-11-16

This is from the Observer Magazine review: In the past two years, each of the major world artists of the 1980s has chosen to turn around and look backwards, to make semi-acoustic, reflective albums in celebration of the music of their formative years. Salif Keita led the way with his wonderful Moffou in 2002, and already this year we've had milestone albums from the Gipsy Kings ( Roots ) and Youssou N'Dour ( Egypt ), with Mory Kante's Sabou due in September.
Ya-Rayi, the latest album by Algerian maestro Khaled, does not immediately sound as if it belongs alongside them. The accompaniment is mostly loud and upfront, Khaled's exultant roar is undiminished, and on the surface sounds similar to his four million-selling albums since his international breakthrough in 1992. But in several respects Ya-Rayi is a return to the singer's early inspirations.
Born in Oran in Algeria in 1960, Khaled burst into popularity as a teenager in the late 1970s, when his cassettes were street-market bestsellers throughout the north African diaspora. As well as being a unique singer, Khaled was also a superb accordion player, and accordion is featured on several tracks here, sometimes played by Khaled himself, more often by co-producer Philip Eidel.
Khaled gave one of the best live concerts I ever attended, in 1994. It was the first and still the only time I have witnessed the entire audience at the Royal Festival Hall leap to its feet the moment the singer walked on stage, and keep dancing until he left it. As Khaled filled that big room with his voice, I was sure there could not be a better singer anywhere. He had everything: a rich, thick tone, infinite vocal flexibility and that indefinable, heartbreaking quality which no words can convey. He can hold a note for ever, or leap from one to another, his voice flying across the beats like an acrobat.

There are perils in having such a good voice, that so often trap pop singers like Mary J Blige and Mariah Carey, who convince themselves they do not need inherently good songs but can disguise half-baked ideas in pyrotechnics. Without understanding the literal meaning of Khaled's songs, we can hear that he always starts with meaning, melody and structure. On this album, most of the songs are credited to his wife, Sam Debbie, but they have the same virtues as those written by Khaled himself in the past.
French co-producer Eidel started collaborating with Khaled in 1992, and the two seem to draw the best out of each other, and Eidel's broad brushstroke arrangements fill the canvasses with drama or subtlety as the occasion demands. This is a rare album in which each track feels like the best so far until it is replaced by the next.
The mood shifts from elegiac to intense, Khaled swoops from a shout to a sigh, the accompaniment is a fiery horn section one moment, a swirling string section the next. The first song, 'Mani Hani', starts with piano. Not an electronic keyboard, but real piano - fluent, easy going, like the musician has all the time in the world. A hint of classical, a touch of jazz. Checking the credits, the player is Jewish pianist Maurice El Medioni, famous in Algeria before Khaled was born. One-by-one, acoustic guitar, percussion and accordion fill out the sound, and 90 seconds have passed before the voice enters, softer and more gentle than we are used to hearing it. It's a brave way to start, and gives fair warning that we should expect the unexpected.
The album's title track 'Ya-Rayi', is co-produced by Don Was, the American who produced the international hit single 'Didi' on Khaled's self-titled album in 1992. 'Ya-Rayi' is much less intense than 'Didi' was, offering Khaled the luxury of stretching out on a double-bed of voices and horns. Meanwhile, 'Zine Zina' marks the first time Khaled has worked with Jacob Desvarieux, one-time leader of the zouk group, Kassav, and it's fascinating to hear Khaled's typical phrasing work so well with the Antilles-tinged horns and backing vocalists. This irresistible call-to-dance is surely going to blast out in nightclubs throughout the world for the next year or so.
Khaled's first studio album since 1999 is a rousing, exuberant expression of passion by one of the great singers in the world today, at the height of his powers.

A true masterpiece!.......2004-10-15

Khaled, once again, has managed to maintain his ownership of the throne of Rai. I, like many others, have wondered what happened to khaled. It's been a while since I've heard from him. I thought that his last "1, 2, 3 Solies" concert would be his last best. But I guess that it was worth the wait. Khaled, as usual, is very innovative and is able to introduce a certain theme in every album he records. On this latest album, the theme is back-to-roots. Unlike many of his other albums where he included many modern and western music themes ranging from Jazz, Reggae, and Pop, Khaled this time is introducing a modern-classic Arabic-Rai music. He puts more Egyptian strings emphasis on many of the tracks (like El Ghira, Ya Galbi, El Hamam, Ensa El Ham) to offer a feeling of the his early music. However, in couple of tracks (like Lemen, Ya-Rayi), he offers the listener a great picture of the early days of how rai was transitioning to more modernized music. Also, Khaled's lyrics are more meaningful and understood in this album. He's using more common Algerian Arabic dialect than Algerian slang. I think it's due to the fact that most of them were written with a big support from his wife this time.

While many people believe that Khaled's best asset is his voice, but I would like to add that there are only few singers out there that can convey emotions and passions in their voice like him. When you hear Khaled's voice blending perfectly with his unique music, special mystic feelings overcome you. Only a few artists like Khaled have the ability to touch you with their singing. In other words, it's not only Khaled's voice that haunts the listener, but also his ability to convey a genuine message of love, sadness, happiness, or neutrality. He could sing with Chinese music and you would still be impressed by his ability to blend genuinely with that music and produce an outstanding song. This guy was simply born to sing!

I think that this is one of Khaled's best albums. It's a one album that you must own and I'm sure that you'll love it like I did. Believe it or not, I had to order this album from the UK because I could not wait for it to be available in the USA. If you get the special edition, the DVD may help you to know more about Khaled's background and how he made his latest album. It has video clips for Aicha, Didi, and Abdel Kader live.

Average customer rating:

Great Dance Album

Made in Medina/Ole Ole
Rachid Taha
Manufacturer: Wrasse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Algeria | Africa | International | Styles | Music

General | International | Styles | Music

Rock | International | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
ASIN: B0009RQS32
Release Date: 2005-06-14

Tracks:

Barra Barra
Foqt Foqt
Medina [Album Version]
Ala Jalkoum
AAA
Hey Anta
Qalantiqa
En Retard
Verit
Ho Cherie Cherie
Garab

Tracks:

Valencia
Nokta
Baadini
Comme un Chien
Boire
Za
Tabla Motown
Non Non Non [Multinational Version]
Jungle Fiction
Kelma
Non Non Non
OlOl

Customer Reviews:

Great Dance Album.......2005-07-30

My belly dancing teacher was the one to introduce my to Rachid Taha, and the first song I ever hear was Nokta from the Ole Ole album. Taha combines traditional Algerian music with electronica that gives him an unusual but captivating sound. I absolutely cannot listen to him without some part of my body getting into the swing of things.

World Music:

World Music

world music

World Music

Selected [EP]

Music for Soprano & Guitar

Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition No1-10; Albeniz: Suite española for piano Op47

Afro-Cuban Jazz [Import]

Nova Latino Collection Box No. 1 [Box set] [Import]

Move On, I Got To Keep Movin' On

Message [Import]

Reach 454 [Enhanced] [Explicit Lyrics]

Mellow Vibes: Sweet [Import]

Earl Wild plays Gershwin

Real Life [Limited Edition] [Original recording remastered]

Novo Transmissor [Import]

Me Gustan Que Me Ruegen

Live at Blues Alley

That Total Age