CD Review: RumbAmazigha

RumbAmazigha

RumbAmazigha

Taller de Musics

The Spanish collective of musicians form a handy mix of Amazigh, Berber, Tamasheq, and Catalonia rhythms with fiery percussion and moving vocals. The music is produced with some percussion, violin, banjo, guitar, and bass in such a way that is extremely easy to listen to. At times, the music is more Spanish-tinged. However, the North African elements rise to the occasion, even though the lyrics are in Spanish. The breezy melodies reflect an almost Cape Verde feel, especially on 'RumbAmazigha' and 'Cultures'. On 'Africa', the banjo replaces the typical, North African n'goni lute. There are hints of Algeria's Amazigh Kateb throughout. The lively percussion, banjo plucking, and Spanish elements make RumbAmazigha a unique album of ear-friendly (and dance-friendly) tunes. Lyrics are not provided in the liner notes. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Malika Zarra's 'Berber Taxi'

Malika Zarra

Berber Taxi

Motema

Malika is a Berber/Amazigh singer from Morocco. Based on local rhythms and influences, Malika incorporates several languages into the mix as well, including English, Arabic, Moroccan Arabic, French, and Berber. The music is not Gnawa, but it does transport one into a place of peace and tranquility. Musically, Malika is a more folked-out musician that is not as rock-oriented as fellow Berber countrywomen, Hindi Zahra or Iness Mezel. In fact, some of the tunes are quite laid-back, including the jazzy 'Houaria' and 'Mossameeha.' If you can picture Berber jazz, then this might be it. Some of the rhythms take on a Caribbean or Afro-Latin feel. This is especially evidenced on 'Amnesia.' It is refreshing to hear other voices from the deserts of North Africa. If you would like to take a brief respite from groovy blues guitar music, then relax and transport your way via Berber Taxi into the heart of Moroccan charm. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: 'Soul'try Sounds of Ahmed Soultan

Ahmed Soultan

Code

Somum Records

Born in Morocco, Ahmed Soultan soon emigrated to France where he experimented with Arabic and French rap/hip-hop styles. In fact, some of the songs are sung in Berber, French, Arabic, and English. The overall feel of the album is very laid-back and smooth. Code is not a gangster rap album loaded with profanities and violence. Instead, it bridges a Francophone style with Arabic soul. Ahmed is joined by a female singer, Samira, on a few tracks. Three of the fourteen tracks are repeated for whatever reason. One of the three tracks features a guest artist, Afrodiziac. The secret to understanding and enjoying Code is not that difficult soon after you start playing the tracks. The music takes on a 'soul'try and smooth edge with little help from traditional instrumentation over modern hip-hop beats. One thing is for sure, Code is in its own category. It's that good. ~ Matthew Forss