Search - Various Artists :: Rai Superstars

North African soul

Enrique Torres | San Diegotitlan, Califas | 05/14/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I don't normally listen to Rai music but have heard some so I thought I'd try this compilation. The good thing about compilations is you get a variety; the bad news is some artists are less than memorable. Such is the case with this disc. Featured artists include a slew of Chebs(meaning "young"), Cheb Khaled, Cheb Mami, Cheb Nadir and Cheb Nastro. Of these I think Cheb Khaled, the "King of Rai" and not so young anymore , was the most interesting. Certainly he is the most well known proponent of the desert blues from Algeria known as Rai, which to my ears has a soulful sound like R&B, only created with Middle Eastern instruments to a North African beat. Also of note is the song entitled "Lazrag Saani" by Cheb Mami that has some cool horns and great Spanish Morrocan, French and Arabic elements to create quite an exotic tune. Cheb Mami is known as "The Prince of Rai" and known to Western audiences through is singing with Sting on the pop song "Desert Rose." So now we have the King and Prince of Rai so you might ask, where is the Queen of Rai? That title might go to Chaba Fadela, who is not featured but there are other female vocalists who are pretty sweet. One such notable artist featured here is Chaba Zahouanai and her song entitled "Samehni." I love the instruments blending together but I only wish I understood the lyrics as it sounds very soulful and mournful. If you haven't listened to Rai check it out it is pretty interesting , although quite foreign to Western ears. My son walked into the garden one day when I was listening to some Rai and he commented to be careful and how some neighbors might react and that I might find myself defending myself ubder The Patriot Act. I laughed nervously, that can't happen hear I said. Anyway the music is great for a change of pace. Recommended for fans of international music with a Middle Eastern vibe. If you like stuff like Natasha Atlas or Alabina this might appeal to you; it is World music that is defintely different and certainly not for everyone however."