Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Listen To The First Great Album of 2014! Thanks To Sherine Abdel-Wahab


Songs Are HERE
There are albums that make you happy, and there are these who make you EXCITED! This is the right time to use all caps, Sherine has a new album and it's everything you need in a great pop album. The album addresses all men, the nice ones, the deranged ones, the jealous few and the perfect package. There are those sobering songs, where you feel like sitting back and letting the music speak to your mind. But this is the sweetest and boldest version of Sherine. I was in love with her 2009 album, it was her first with Rotana, I know I played it over and over as I was picking olives in Gaza.

This is not an album for girls or boys, but for the mature ladies and gentlemen who want a crash course on relationship. This album offers the best training on surviving a relationship and making the most of it. It's a prescription of some sort.

01 - W Meen Ekhtar, dance away your pains to this perfect song! The most fun track you will get, and this is why is was released ahead of the album for all the right reasons....this was a lead song that would have been buried in the album otherwise.

02 - Da2 Al Saytara, a smart song and a fresh concept that puts possessive and obsessive men in their place. Bless her heart for coming up with this formula. This is a war gender between men and women.

03 - Mota5tha Men Al Ayam, a smooth music start, then the song adds more layers, bringing the best out of Sherine's voice. She really does wonders in the songs where she is thinking out loud, she makes them sound like a journal. A love/hate song

04 - Ya Layali, wow, just woo how much emotions does this lady have? She feels like an ocean of sweetness that flows into your vain. My sister loves this song, and I played it and noted how Sherine puts the music in the backseat and take the vocal lead.

05 - Shokran Ya Shaham, I love this song, the energy, the vibe, and the music with the lyrics. This is a very Sherine song. It's a revenge song, screw that one who wronged you.

06 - Khaynen, this is the darkest song on album...men are cheaters so do not act surprised and break in tears. The fact that Sherine and her husband got divorced, may explain this one.

07 - Fee Leila, bring back the funk and let's get to the dance floor everyone! Sherine means joy to many of her fans spread around the globe. The song is the first Egyptian light style. It feels like the songs made by Egyptian male pop stars

08 - Mosh Khayfa, love the music, sobering tone, the song that runs in one's head after they find themselves in  a tough position. I will survive tone about moving on, and turning the page. Sherine mixes it up and changes melodies in the middle to keep the song interesting.

09 - Qelt Noom, more funk and dance songs, we can agree this is a breath of fresh air, a new style that makes Sherine cute, lovable and cheerful. She made a song that makes you happy, and reminds you of the first day when you find out, you are in love. This is one of the top pop songs that gets one's going while speaking to his/her core.

10 - Tajrba Mo2lema, Piano is good. This is where the flowing emotions, bittersweet takes over. The song stars slow, then the song picks up speed, and changes gears....clever production and wonderful mixing. The album reminds me that it was not cheap to make such a winner record.

11 - Koly Melkak, a guilt trip song, I take love seriously and you should. A confessional song by a woman is worth a million of those made be men. I know somewhere in Cairo and Beirut singers are jealous of how perfect this album. This song invites slow dance...

12 - Ana Keteer, the title is a bit frisky....the music opens like that Ramadan songs right before they call the prayer. Then comes Sherine's voice declaring that she is complex.....not just one thing. I am crazy about this song now, but it takes getting used to. The lyrics do the heavy lifting.... I am strong, a message she sends out to all lovers of the world.

This albums reminds us of how different Sherine is form the rest, she is many things to different people, she wears many hats and wears each of them well. Her voice may go down in history as the most flexible of them all. I can see her forty years form now still relevant and beloved. We are witnessing the making of a legend.

شيرين - يا ليالي / Sherine - Ya Layali


Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Download: البوم مصطفى قمر - انا مطمن Moustafa Amar 2014 Album #Review

It's officially out, the much anticipated album of the self-proclaimed king of pop, Mostafa Amar. I am in love with the album cover art, I adore the colors, the light green blazer, and the orange and Hawaiian blue background. As for the album, I have listened to seven tracks so far, and I am satisfied. Good pop songs that vary in mood and melody. Good energy too, and Mostafa tried to mix things up and make them upbeat. It mostly worked.

Has this album added anything for Mostafa Amar's legacy? I highly doubt that, but it's a really fun album. At times, you may get bored listening to Mostafa trying to dazzle you. Mind you, Amar's music has always pushed him to the top, do not feel this is happening for me this album. "Albi W Elli Hasalo" is the golden track. It's as good as it gets."Ana Metamen" is decent, for a lead song it's not the sharpest. "Howa Grali Eah" is another sweet song will get your hips to shake, I like the way it flows.

"Enta Aref" for those older and younger women who like dreamy slow songs is the one to spin over and over again. "Etneen W Arbaah" is a cheerful love song that allows Mostafa Amar to show off his better self, a happy track."Badhak Awi" the saddest song about a breakup that won't go away, I like most of this song, Mostafa sounds good when he sings softly.  "Had Gheri" a wary song with simple lyrcis, and so for the music, it ain't fresh, but it's actually decent. "Da Kalamoh Talat Terbaao" L love the title, and appreciate the dance portion in the middle, it reminds of Amar's nineties song. "Halla Ghareba" same for this track, it has that Carlos Santana feel, and it puts Amar in his elements.

This album is a solid A minus, but that feels like this is the best one can do given the circumstances in the music industry and the mood in most Arab countries. Mostafa Amar should walk tall, and hank his team for a wonderful album.

01 - Ana Metamen
02 - Albi W Elli Hasalo
03 - Badhak Awi
04 - Fena Men Keda Allah
05 - Lahzet Daaf
06 - Enta Aref
07 - Da Kalamoh Talat Terbaao
08 - Howa Grali Eah
09 - Etneen W Arbaah
10 - Had Gheri
11 - Sebni Aaool
12 - Halla Ghareba

مصطفى قمر - جميع سيمبلات [12 سيمبل] ألبوم - أنا مطمن 2013


Badhak Awi - photo - Moustafa Amar بضحك أوى - صور - مصطفى قمر

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Here's Why Ramy Gamal Just Made The Best Pop Album In Arabia @RamyGamalMusic



There are many factors that make an album great in my mind, but the biggest one to me is cohesion. An album can be loaded with great songs, but if it doesn't have a cohesive element to it, it just won't be as great as it could have been. It can still be enjoyable of course, but it won't reach the height of its potential. Cohesion has long been a staple of what makes an album great. I know Ramy Gamal just made a n album that can be called the perfect one

I love every single song on that album, no flaws. I don't think any of their other albums have matched it so far. No rubbish whatsoever every song is a real song, well thought and something amazing. which aren't even real songs, they reduce the point of an album and just use it to fill time. For a good album, you should be able to tell just by listening, how much time and effort went into making it. What I like about Ramy Gamal's latest album is that not all the songs are the same, some are slow, some are fast...mixing it up helps and doesn't make you feel like your listening to the same song 15 times over. Speaking of, if you can listen to each song by itself over and over and not get tired of it, there's a good album.

1.) Immediately grabs my attention - that doesn't mean that I have to like it immediately, but it has to grab my attention, and I have to remember it afterwards. Sometimes an album will be so abrasive or out there that I can't be said to enjoy it, but it will make me want to go back to and listen to it.

2.) Reveals depth and enjoyment on repeated listens - Layers, motifs, a multiplicity of meanings in the lyrics. Depth, however, does not necessarily mean complexity. There are several simple albums that I would consider deep because they strike such a specific emotional nerve and do so with incredible poignancy, The Replacements' Let it Be comes to mind.

3.) Enjoyment over an extended period of time - This goes with 2, but the two are not wholly interwoven. A complex, deep, album may reveal itself to be boring or bloated after six or seven spins, but a great album can be played over and over again and I'll be able to enjoy even if I'm not listening for depth or content.
And how do you achieve that? A lot of it's subjective. Play the kinds of chords I like, do something that I've never heard before, write lyrics that resonate with me emotionally or mentally, weave your album together so it feels like a cohesive unit, etc.

A theme, or dare I say a concept, is going to help an album hang together, Ramy found one and it circulates around a guy who is trying to forget that love and he fails to do it every time he tries. He is not doing flirty songs, and then I am heart broken types. Insisted the theme is clearly, when loves goes sour and you still hold tight to your memories.

As for the great music Ramy Gamal is a gifted musician and composer, he knows the music side, and he shops around for good composers to work with. Maybe because he appreciates the work of the talent that they give him their finest work. He also make music for his own songs, but he does not make the mistake and only work with himself, he knows that can create dull albums.

رامي جمال - حكاية روح / Ramy Gamal - Hekayet Roh


رامي جمال - فترة مش سهلة / Ramy Gamal - Fatra Mesh Sahla



رامي جمال - بكلمتين / Ramy Gamal - Bekelmetein



رامي جمال - عمال ييجي عليا / Ramy Gamal - Ammal Yeegy Allaya


رامي جمال - تعدي سنين / Ramy Gamal - Teaddy Seneen

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Listen: دنيا سمير غانم | عليك حبيبي كلام - Donia Samir Ghanem | 3alek 7abiby Kalam



Pop music is not dead, and Donia Samir Ghanem is here to give it the shot in the arm it really needs. Girl pop in Egypt has not really taken off, but Donia is here to make sure it takes off and it soars with the release of her singles....the album is forthcoming.

She challenged us in her first song, and stirred the pop of relationships between men and women, she pushed the envelop there with her beautifully performed song. She broke our hearts in the second one, and it was the right song to break a tear too. For the most recent single release, she wants us to enjoy life and fall in love again--the kind that makes us want o dance. The song features cool music, where you can shake it. Donia does the sweet thing here, and the music keeps the song flowing in an interesting one.

Unlike the other two singles, this is not about the emotional complex and riddles of love, but rather the song is about easy care. The song feels like watching fireworks go off, a change of pace for Donia Samir Ghanem to show she has more styles and range than most thought she would.

Her label Roznama Records strives to make, release and produce blockbuster music in the region, I feel Donia is the right star to do that, she embodies this notion. It's not every day we catch this broad excitement for this yet to be released album for this breakout actress cum songstress.

دنيا سمير غانم | عليك حبيبي كلام - Donia Samir Ghanem | 3alek 7abiby Kalam

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Download: Ramy Gamal 2013 Album And Review ألبوم رامي جمال الجديد ، فترة مش سهلة


Not sure if this is the official release date yet, but Ramy Gamal new album--his second to date hit the market today and the buzz is one. The album was preceded by an online promotional campaign, and it comes in 15 songs. This is an album that I know it will make me happy. This is an artist who knows what makes a good song that good. He gets to work with the best in the industry and he give them his best.

This is why it would be the a surprise if the album did not make people love the artists who released it. This is the fruit of three years of work which the time it took since Ramy Gamal released his debut album--months before the Arab Spring reached Egypt.

The album starts on a happy note with upbeat and club worthy "Ensaha we Ertah" move one and rest. Then comes the title song "Fatra Mesh Sahla" afflicted song with so much pain and truth that will have your heart trembling.  "Alby Melk Leek"‬‎, a love song meant to be a decent pop songs and a wonderful song to dance or drive to. if anyone made that song, it will be boring but Ramy stays away from repeating himself. "Sahranalak Oyony" a song that allows Ramy Gamal to show his vocal sweetness and then picks itself up and get you to the dance floor. "Oodet Zanb" slow songs make an appearance on the album, you are giving a break, then comes the lover who had to walk away from his loved one, an expressive song indeed about promises. "Hekayet Roh"  a smooth song where the guitar takes the center stage, a lighter song for the easy listener. You may feel guilty if you have ever wronged somebody in love "Zay El-Shams", the album is still strong, and Ramy keeps it interesting and fresh so far. Truth is like the sun cannot hide it, it plays like a love letter written during the time of war by a solider. The music gets a lot more intense as the song progresses.

Then comes "Farhan Beshakl" the electro song! I was hoping not to run into these, but I guess they are popular. This song is the weakest so far, it hold back Ramy Gamal. I suspect the young listener who just got to college will play this song in their first weekend.  "Ammal Yeegy Allaya" I love the intro and how the song imposes itself--it makes you really curios. A sweet song indeed where it will land in the right place and make people happy. It feels like an updated pop songs form the 90s, a welcome retro. "Wahsheen Baad" a song you play in your head before you think the relationship is over, a trip where you evaluate the love story, then decide after the audit, it's really over. Ramy does well here as he can some lines are coming straight from the deep place in his soul and hear, a mature song. "Matetmaneesh", a dark song about people who pray they do not meet, a song made for those who fear good things, a sobering lyrics where the music is the glue, but the lyrics are the stars. This is post a breakup phase, now you do not really wish to run into them, and give your ex the cold shoulder.


"Bekelmetein", simple lyrics, starts slow then the crazy is out of the bag. I like and I appreciate the simplicity in the music "Gat Saleema" a bit more complex music is welcome, some upbeat melody, and then comes Ramy Gamal delivering his lines in a perfect flow and timing. I love how in this song, he is again talking to his lady....he likes conversations this is why I think a duet should be on his to do list. Ramy is never angry, but he might be always happy and in love. "Teaddy Seneen" a saong about the game of time, it feels a bit like track number too, similar topic and sentiments that feels tired. However, Ramy Gamal with his voice makes the song interesting and worth listening to. Here he is talking to himself, trying to comfort himself in a dark hour. "Mataalemnash", the last track should be the final magic act, the music is awesome! A song about life, and bigger things, about mean people who wrong people. Ramy finds himself here in trouble due for his innocence. These types of songs are popular and I think make good music videos. Here, Mr. Gamal tells himself to wake up and start being smart about people. The song is short though and it feels to end abruptly. I want more.

01. Ensaha we Ertah
02. Fatra Mesh Sahla
03. Alby Melk Leek‬‎
04. Sahranalak Oyony
05. Oodet Zanb
06. Hekayet Roh
07. Zay El-Shams
08. Farhan Beshakl
09. Ammal Yeegy Allaya
10. Wahsheen Baad
11. Matetmaneesh
12. Bekelmetein‬‎
13. Gat Saleema
14. Teaddy Seneen
15. Mataalemnash


قريبا بالأسواق | رامي جمال - فترة مش سهلة


Ramy Gamal ( Tarkeba 3'areba ) Promo - برومو البوم تركيبه غريبه 2013

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

The First Review Of Amr Diab's New 2013 Album "Al Leila" Two Thumbs Up



This might be his best album in more than a decade. He knew his last album was a bust, and if he wasn't able to give something perfect, he would have been a joke--once again. But Amr Diab is the smartest entertainer and he has the experience of what works and what does not. Amr Diab found a lot more romantic songs this time around, which is a welcome change form his crazy club mix albums he has been releasing for the past ten years. We like him for his dance songs, and also for his romance songs.

01 - El-Leila, the title song where dance is in the center. This is a happy pop songs where energy is high and emotions are low. But there is wisdom in the lyrics, this resembles the older songs of Amr Diab--the ones that are now considered classics. A clever song with good music, the only criticism I have heard is the music arrangement could have been better.

02 - Garaly Eah, this is an upbeat song where once can dance and cry at the same time. A personal song where someone trying to figure themselves out. Amr Diab's voice is the most recognizable here, he hits the high and low notes and it feels good. Toward the end the song becomes a Euro electric club mix and loses steam.

03 - Andy Soaal, melinia will be in love with this song, the music is meant for them, the lyrics reach my heart. It's a dialogue song about a man who is thinking out loud or having an imaginary conversation with a real and true love. I love the flow and the way the music changes paces throughout the track. This song is like walking on a rainbow, there is so much optimism and love.

04 - Habeet Ya Alby, Spanish guitar Amr Diab is back, it's a slow song but you really won't be able to slow dance to it as the lyrics are on the dark side of an early love. I do not feel this is a hit song, but toward the Middle it gets complex as more music layers are revealed. I got bored for a bit, the only thing that's going well for this song is Amr's voice.

05 - Foo2 Mil Enta Feeh, a slower song where romance and what could have been is the topic. I like the melody and the realism. Wake up, and do something before it's too late. The lyrics are poetic and naturally passionate. The song says, it's within your hand to stay as my loved one or to exist my life. I have not heard Amri Diab deliver a song with this level of sweetness as he has here.

06 - 3addet El Ayam, the sweet voice and vulnerable gentleman is back and he is in full-throttle. The lovable Amr Diab is at exhibit here. The music is a perfect vehicle for the lyricist. Being alone, and as the years pass by is somersetting we wish upon no one, Amr Diab captured these emotions in this sentimental performance about not being able to replace true love.

07 - Khleena L wa7dena, If you want to run a race or drive a really fast car, you want this track. This is a good dance floor songs that DJ s will play over and over or they would play when the feel they crowd is dead. Its dreamy lyrics will agree with many of ladies who re giddy about love. I like the music arrangement and the way the song feels. Amr Diab has another winner that only he can release.

08 - Lafeteha Blad, this is the very old Amr Diab style, it sounded pretty much like his work in the late eighties. The song is a flirty song for the Arab ladies whom Amr could not find substitute for I think this is his most intellectual song, most Arab guys living back home are mean to them ladies, this song by their icon tells them to shut up and know what they have. I love the beat, and I know this song will be a popular live song in his concerts to promote this album. They have magic, Arab ladies says the song, and I would add Amr Diab's album has this magic too.

09 - Mafeesh Minnak, a song a guy should sing if he wants to serenade his lady. A sweet romantic gesture from the guy who defined cool for the past three decades.I like his Amr Diab, again he glows happiness and joy when he is in love. Amr Diab sounds like a warm cinnamon roll, you cannot have enough of. This is a track you would want to play more than once. There are a million reason why Amr is a popular artist, this song gives you one more reason to believe his might.

10 - Sebt Faragh, the confessional love song, a man cannot move past a relationship. you left a giant hole in my life once you walked away form me. It' takes  a real man to perform this song, the music saves the song as the lyrics can cause a heart attack. That means, if the lyrics were sang on a blues music, one might break a tear. But the music keeps the excitement even in the hour of emotional vacuum.

11 - We Heya Zekriaat, the nostalgic romantic will find a safe heaven and a shelter from the good old love days. Poetry is how this song feels, like reading a well-crafted poem from someone who is on his death bed and has nothing to fear. No one should apologize for love--lust is a different thing. This is the wisdom of the old, I hope people will learn something for this delicate song.



12 - Ya Albaha, I feel I have moved somewhere in Latin America, and walking down the street as this song starts. The song is about someone's heart. A song that ladies love for guys to be like. a helpless romantic who is too shy to speak yet takes the chance. He is in love and he does not care who finds out. Again, this is a song a father or a mother would want to hear in the mind an heart of the guy who proposes to their daughter. 

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

"When James Brown Sang In Arabic "Leila / حكيم و جيمس براون - ليلة



Hakim is cool enough that he shared the stage with James Brown once, not too many Arab or international stars have had this honor. The Egyptian party firecracker and well rounded singer has not been making music for some times now, but he is not out. However, he does not seem to want to reclaim his center stage status among many stars who have followed in his footsteps.

One more thing, Hakim had also performed in Central Park in the heart of New York City. He is an icon in  North African music, with fanfare the star  nicknamed the Lion of Egypt, at Central Park Summer Stage. Why? He is still the "king of shaabi music," referring to his rhythmic street pop. New York is filled with many young Egyptians whose quite ways are helping to rebuild an economy.

Hakim music tends to combine traditional instruments and folkloric melodies with urban dance beats and a propulsive contemporary vocal style; it emerged in the late 60s. Thanks to his American producer, Miles Copeland who had him singing duets with everyone from James Brown to Latin pop diva Olga Tañon, but today he's once again without a Western label.

Hakim is a proponent of cross-cultural unity. He was one of the first artists to update traditional shaabi with electric instruments, and he has collaborated with Western artists. Fittingly, the highlight of this thoroughly enjoyable show was "Ah Ya Albi," a duet with the Dominican-American R&B singer Karina Pasian. (The Puerto Rican vocalist Olga Tañon sang the original recorded version.)

Some of Hakim's music is disagreeably slick or driven by distractedly huge programmed beats, but his voice and his pop-star charisma can outshine the glossiest arrangements—and in his live shows he strips away much of the studio lacquer.

Hakim & James Brown - Leila / حكيم و جيمس براون - ليلة


Hakim - Aal Beyhebbeny / حكيم - قال بيحبني

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Reviewing The Greatest Arabic Pop Album In البوم كارول سماحة - احساس 2013



01 - Ehssas, the most sophisticated and grown up track on the entire album. A bittersweet song from Carole who knows how to make those song best. I love the low key energy and the music takes you up and down in a beautiful race.  

02 - El Afrah, one of the happier songs and naturally you go to the Egyptian dialect for those. This song has legs, it will stick around and be played at each of our parties and happy occasions. This is new territory for Carole, she will be happy she chose this song and added it to her album--such songs have a longer shelf life. 

03 - Hakhounak, the most jaded song one person can hear. Carole actually wrote the lyrics. Smart and strong women do not like to be cheated or wronged. She is avenging that with this song, I will betray you.  They very words that can kill a man and send him to his destruction. A hurricane of emotions where Carole is very comfortable at being conflicted   

04 - Inta Tofl Kbir, written and composed by Marwan Khoury, I do not think this is his best work. But the song itself is refreshing. Too man men out there, live life as if they are big boys. It's time for Carole to expose them and take them to task. It's slow dance song that changes pace and has a Spanish influence. 

05 - Ohdonni, The very sweet song performed like a girl in love for the first time would have written it. A dreamy song that guys like to imagine their epic love to be like. I love this side of Carole, the dreamy side of her sounds very original  the lyrics are a delight. A nice break from the darker songs. Huge me or embrace me is the tittle her, and this alone tells me, the song is about someone's need to feel warm. 

06 - Ana Geet, pop is not dead as long Carole gives it her time. This is a cute song with a catchy beat meant for the younger fans who like clubbing. Love means to compromise just to be close to the one you love. Looking forward helps, and the song calls for just that. This is a winner track. 


07 - Wahshani Belady, the Arab Spring broke far too many homes, and drove so many away from the motherland. And those who have been away are thinking now to come back home. Coming home songs are a dime a dozen, but good ones with a sweet dance beat are hard to come by. Carole has the right song and I am in love, about loving the homeland, the people form there and wanting to take a walk down memory lane. The music fusion is exicting and is done right,One of the top songs on this album and an instant classic. 

08 - Yaoumayn Shahrayn, the sweet dose has another offering, Carole channels her most delicate soul and dives deep down to bring the most sincere love potion out of her lyrics. A Lebanese style all the way, the sweet, unconditionally loving despite the distance. I love how the music flows and allows listener to close his/her eyes and think of whatever brings such memories to life. 

09 - Mosh Maakoul, Dick Dale would be very happy to see someone from Lebanon is this sophisticated to incorporated his own surge guitar music. By the way Dick is Lebanese. The song also takes the Spanish flamenco flavor with lyrics about life and living life to the fullest. This might be a call for women to do more with their lives as life can be a very sweet thing as we travel through it.

10 - Mosh Tayaak, The spunky song has arrived and it is the perfect tongue in cheek moment. I love this song, about how crazy and stupid can love make us. I love this song and I would ask fore more please  the lyrics are accessibly, fun and will make all girls happy to be ones. I like the positive humor and crazy feel Carole brings in this song. The song goes, I cannot stand you, I do not love you, because I am crazy about you...preach one!

11 - Khedni Maak, a cover of one of the most celebrated Lebanese diva, the late Salwa Qattrib. It's hard to live in the shadows of such legends, I feel the song could have been done better. But the song introduced a whole new generation  to an older yet better songs. The cover game is tricky, and I feel Carole has a lot more to offer that what I am hearing in this cover. Carole did not get through to me here. 

12 - Wou Taawadet, this song came out last year and made waves by rocking the slow music scene  I like this complexity of love--love can be a very dark and risky thing. This is a breakup song form the first rate. This track offers peace to those living with a broken heart. Pick yourself up, and march on. Carole ruled out in this song not to mentioned the amazing music that accompanies such mighty lyrics. 

13 - Ma Bnethammelsh Baad, A song that plays like a conversation between two people who loved one another, but cannot stand the differences. Breaking up is possible, but the song gives a glimpse of hope. It ain't over yet. A mellow song going for sad. A sobering track that brings a balance, love is not all parties it's fare more complex and the naive should keep away. 


Carole Samaha - Mosh Tayaak / كارول سماحة - مش طايقاك




Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Review: Tamer Hosny 2013 Album "Bahbak Enta"


You really have to listen to each of the songs in entirety because some songs change gears and keep you guessing what will happen next.


01. Bahbak Enta, simple techno music intro to keep things upbeat till this singing bird takes on the microphone to confess his love. I love how the song sounds like a plea right before it kicks off the party and shed a whole new Tamer mood.
02. Ya Ba5t Elly Hat7beh, this song was released in advance to hype up the album and it did the trick. A Romantic gem sing with a catchy Egyptian beat, a new song for Tamer who has done similar songs before. The topic might attract younger college aged listeners  not so much the family folks. A gleeful song with shades of romance.
03. Elly Rah, this is a winner song, we have never seen this wise Tamer Hosny talent before. He sounds grownup and sick of living with people who live do not give back. I am a fan and think Tamer landed a smashing hit, his emotions come through in genuine fashion.
04. Had Shabhoh, a sad about what could have been? a ballad that exists in each and every culture and tongue. Could we be reunited again? A song about the similar faces, and names we see in other people. The Deja Vu feeling we get when we see someone and think we have known them from a past life. A sweet song
05. Magnon Ana, Again, I love the intro, I could be hearing this song in some Latin area, or an area where street music is king. I appreciate how this song is made, it's fashioned in the American style of keeping things interesting and singing without singing. Lyrics are not that fresh, but as the song is catchy, you won't notice.
06. T3ala N3esh, Let's love is the title! I have heard this song from Tamer before. The sweet and gentle soul guy is back. I do not like those songs, but the targeted audience is not me. I do fine the music delightful and sophisticated 
07. W Mn Ba3dy Eltofan, a happy song from a man who sounds if he lives without a care in the world. A balanced approach to dance and pop. I love the title, we care only for number one. I do not care how it all plays after me--do not care if the flood stroke. About being selfish in a relationship. The music is made right with incredible production.
08. Saf7a Gdeda, A new page is the title! Start over, and hope people won't call you out. The song starts slow, then it takes us into the inside of crazy club with the mix. A fun song for the live concerts, but Tamer slows it when he sings, then the song chances pace few times. I like 80 percent of the music, but loud is the norm.
09. 5alena E5wat, a song you play in dark night, when you are about to do something more private in an intimate setting. Here' comes the boom, the song is about "Lets' Be Friends Instead!" Who hasn't heard this before? I am not sure what to make of the song by a guy talking about another guy--he might be singing in the voice of a lady. Again, I have enjoyed this song and loved the story it tells and the simple lyrics if puts to good use.
10. Habet Etnen, the love triangle song, I do not like the logic, but life is illogical sometimes. The song has never heard before lyrics. A dilemma when you fall in love with two people at the same time. This is like taking a journey inside the mysterious minds of many people in relationship. I love how Tamer talks about pride and self-respect here. I like the distinct Egyptian melody, and something tell ms the fans would welcome them too. Could it be possible I have met the right person at the wrong time?
11. Ya Ret Terdy, a classical start, love the guitar strokes. A dreamy song from a guy who wants to forget the past and start a new page. A gentle song by a very emotional version of the artist with a great melody that comes painted in sorrow. This is a smooth track But will they forgive?
12. 3orba, Tamer Hosny has traveled the world and with that comes the feeling of being away, missing on somethings. This is the homesickness song that most of his fans who live abroad will find it amazing. He traveled and performed for them--came to the US, went to Europe and Dubai. He is apologetic for those who live away. Naturally, I like this song and I welcome Tamer Hosny in the expats club.
13. Ya Retoh Yestahel, save best for last, the song sounds like a video game, then Tamer Hosny walks in a parade with a guest--I now know it's her friend and guy with the Free Music lable Baha Soltan. Tamer has never big on duets, this is a good surprise. This is not a love song, a song about learning a lesson and marching forward.

Friday, March 1, 2013

Enjoy Nassif Zeytoun "Ya Samt" Album البوم ناصيف زيتون - يا صمت


This is a re-post, 

To be honest, this is the first exciting album to be released this year so far. I am waiting for more more awesome album that will land on March 13th. But for now, this is a worthy album, that should keep my music player busy for some time.

This is like a fine dessert, you do not eat it all at once, you savor it and take it one bit at a time. An impressive 12 tracks is the debut of boy wonder of Syrian pop, Nassif has a lot to celebrate. He is back with a variety album that changes styles, melodies and genres.

YouTube links for each of the songs are ready for your ears. This is a very good album that will stick around  Nassif has shown that if a talented young artists gets good advise, and a contract, he will make a very fine album. Syria, has one hell of a pop star who can actually entertain many generations was born three years ago, and now he is ready for his closeup.

For the moron who took down this post, the links are for YouTube videos...not some mp3 files.


01 - Ya Tayr El Ghouroub
02 - Baado Raemik
03 - El Ard Li Btimchi Aaleha
04 - Hiyi Li Ghamzitni
05 - Mani Zaalan
06 - Mich Aam Tezbat Maii
07 - Sawt Rbaba
08 - Ya Aachikata El Wardi
09 - Ya Samt
10 - We Nweet
11 - Sabrak Alaya
12 - Larmik Bbalach

Nassif Zeytoun - Larmik Bbalach / ناصيف زيتون - لرميك ببلاش



Nassif Zaytoun 's Interview | مقابلة خاصة مع ناصيف زيتون


Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Hot Albums: Best Of Bahaa Sultan 2012 Album


Few know that popular hit-maker Bahaa Sultan is actually an Iraqi and not from Egypt. But that does not matter, the singer has been living in Egypt for at least 15 years now. Since he has launched his career there and found his music to be popular among millions in Egypt.

Four albums later, comes an album for the best of Bahaa Sultan songs. This is an album I actually wanted to have, because the singer does not make any lame songs. He only has great songs and good ones. Thanks to his sweet personality, sorrow filled voice and a loving producer who does wonder with the music he oversees. Bahaa's songs are extremely popular in the mainstream, better yet his fans appreciate the man and his choices he shared with them every three years or so.

The album takes you on a tour of human emotions, form happy want to dance to I want to be alone now please  Each song you feel like Bahaa is singing for you and only for you. I am uncertain if this album is out in the markets or if it;'s fan created. I do see the logo for Free Music--Bahaa's producer, but I do not see this album making the rounds.


01 - Yally Bayee
02 - Garahny Marah
03 - We Bena2es
04 - Yally Mashy
05 - Wayak
06 - El Shouk
07 - We Tindam Leh
08 - Ally
09 - Be'amaret Eeh
10 - Law Be3tny
11 - Albak Ya Hawl Ellah
12 - Youmeen We Ado
13 - Maktoub Allaya
14 - Ah Law Ashofak
15 - Ana Mosamem

Clip "We Malna" for Bahaa Sultan/ كليب "ومالنا" لبهاء سلطان

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Reviewing Shady El Ghetany 2012 Album البوم شادي الغيطاني - تقريبا محبتهاش


Shady El Ghetany is a welcome addition to the Egyptian pop music scene  A guy who sounds sweet but also rocks hard. He released a new album, his first with a clever title of "I I Didn't Like Her Almost". Let's rock this record industry with artists like Shady who looks the part. The album comes in six tracks including one remix. He is musician by training who performs with his hard, mind and soul.

1- Tariban M7bthash, Rock music has now crashed unto Egypt, thanks to Shady who have figured a way to make this music a vehicle to deliver a romantic song. A happy song coming from a guy who looks the part. This is a story about a girl that 's in love with herself and not the guy.
2- Mish Di El7btha, a softer version of a really good pop song. Shady nails a bittersweet song about falling in love with someone who changes colors. A very Egyptian song about being good, but preserving your dignity. A good addition to a hot album.
3- la2et Wa7da, a happy song with Egyptian pop music written all over it. An upbeat song with a high energy and sweet lyrics about growing up and moving forward with the right person once found.
4- Alf zekra, a sobering track with great guitar work. This track is about the good memories that can save any serious relationship from going bust.
5- Awel ma 3neeky,  a pop song made for those who want to wake up together. A romantic song meant for women and guys who have never been with one. A sweet opportunity for Shady to show her softer side in style.
6-Tariban Riemax

Shady El Ghetany PROMO - برومو "تقريباً ما حبتهاش" شادي الغيطاني

Friday, October 5, 2012

Who Makes Better Music? Egypt Or Lebanon



Egypt has always been there as the home of Arabic music, anyone who is anybody must make a stop in Egypt in order to be on the radar. Because most TV networks have traditionally been based there, Egypt is a huge market and they tend to have an industry going in there full time. To Egypt, entertainment is their black gold. A cash cow of sort that keeps many families afloat.

But in the early 2000,  the power has started to shift, Lebanon has stabilized, and has been made the home of many TV networks and cool cafes. More and more Lebanese venture into music--movies are only coming from Egypt, but in music the Egyptian pop has been losing traction to generations of Lebanese stars who have returned home to make good music. The ones in Lebanon has also taken advantage of internet marketing, they no longer have to go to Egypt to be famous, they can have their own show on the internet and make money form home--in theory.

Also Lebanon tends to be a lot more liberal than the entertainment industry in Egypt--less censorship and more investments form wealth business men from the Arab Gulf who seem to have bet their money in Lebanon. Combined with a zombie phase most Egyptian composers have gone under--they were not making hot records from 2002--to 2008. What was the last Amr Diab hit? In that phase Tamer Hosny has prospered and good hard working entertainers were left in the dark.

But then again the Gulf started buying out all those big names, they would hire the top entertainers from Egypt and Lebanon, give their amazing lyrics--mostly poems and invite them to record the songs free of charge. Sometimes the Arab entertainer would make a bank from one hit song. The Gulf still buys music--they can afford to. And they tend to be more generous with their concerts and private events--no star would turn them down.

Yes, Egypt has kept its place, they were down for few years, but starting 2010 and better songs are coming out from that country, better albums and bigger stars. Sure, the Arab Spring did not help, but everyone was done for a while. Egypt will always be there, it's a sure thing. They have an industry that's a 100 year old--no other Arab country come even close. Sure, some might hate the Egyptian dominance, but at ultimately, they are 90 million strong.

I would put my money on Egypt any-day, but that does not mean that Lebanon cannot compete, in face I think competition is great for everyone. 

Thursday, October 4, 2012

And The Best 2012 Arabic Pop Album Goes To...



Mahmoud El-Esseily is a pop star of a different kind, he does pop songs form the heart and he does not chase after what's popular like house music. He keeps it real and his lyrics speak about more than love and the ladies. In his album you will find different themes, friendship. loyalty, country and the love of his life. Today's pop stars do not seem to want a new challenge--they are happy making mediocre songs. Not this Esseily album. It stands out among the many 2012 albums.

The album delivers many different songs that will have you singing along. The album does offer its listeners a free therapy where your can put all your frustrations aside and sing along with the artist as his songs and chorus sound so friendly to their ear and the soul. This is what distinguishes good pop form mediocre pop. The first lifts up your spirit.

I did not expect this album to be this good, but I am glad it was. Mahmoud El-Esseily manged to make the best pop album for 2012. The album has different styles, and Mahmoud hits all the right notes and adapts his voice to carry a song. Like that track about his best friend who has left us, it's a bittersweet song where the singer put his heart on display. The song is dedicated for the many souls that was murdered during the soccer game late last year.

And there are the songs made for the homeland, tomorrow will be better. Most songs about Egypt preach the time lesson, Mahmoud keeps them interesting and draws images only a poet is capable of recreating. El-Esseily only takes himself seriously when he has to, his albums reveals a great deal of humor. Like the song about the pharmacy and the Tahrir Square. I know I and a lot of ladies would appreciate his apologetic track about El-Esseily's obsession with blonde hair. He makes it right with the ladies of Egypt.

I can tell you this, the album is so good that I am certain other pop stars are analyzing it to learn from it. This is how you really make an album, you make it when you are ready to record and when you have something new to perform. Recreating old formulas won't make you special anymore. I know El-Esseily broke the mold and presented a great fusion of musical themes and verbosity that will carve a place for the hip pop star.

01.Dehkah
02.Eisha Helwa
03.Eshtaghalony
04.Donia Gdeda
05.Set El Setat
06.Adeny Baaiesh
07.El-Leyla
08.Enta Meny
09.Hankhaf Men Eah
10.Nazra Fe Eineky
11.Warak Warak
12.El-Agzakhanah
13.Aysheen
14.Mabsout Fe Makanak

Mahmoud El-Esseily Shayaf 2012 محمود العسيلى شايف


P.S. for some reason, the album has been removed form YouTube and the clips on there have no sound due to copyrights issues.

سيمبلات البوم حماده هلال ماتقولهاش Samples Hamada Helal 2012


Hamada Helal is back with a new album, and we are all enjoying the samples for this upcoming album. I am loving each of the tracks Hamada will release. Sweet, happy, funny and heartbroken are the colors of the upcoming album. Hamada manages to do what other stars fail so bad in doing which is recreating his old songs with new material and song songs. He works withing a formula.

It works for Hamada because he keeps the album energizing as you can dance and part to this album. Not using fancy words helps, by finding middle ground language. Most people who are asking a fun album, they are not looking for a mental workout. Not exactly street language and not that one you need to go to school to process. Keeping humor is also a signature Helel move, it helps him be one of us--he is not too rigid.

Hamada is on top of pop culture reference and when he brings them in his songs it seems he is speaking to his doorman not to his university professor. In one track Helal wears a sponge bob costume and wins the kids over. But he also keeps college kids with a couple sad songs where he lets his emotion out of the bag. This is how you keep a balance and this is how you move records.

I can assure you this, Hamada's album is a golden chance for the cassette market to redeem itself. Everyone in the streets of Egypt and beyond want to be buddies with Helal. They can take a peice of him with them home when they purchase his album.

Enjoy the sample  

 سيمبلات البوم حماده هلال ماتقولهاش Samples Hamada Helal 2012

Friday, September 28, 2012

Download Majid Al Mohandes 2012 Album البوم ماجد المهندس - انا وياك

Majid El Mohandes or Majid is a hot ticket artists. While he is huge in the Gulf area, as poets and weddings throw money at him to see him. He is also huge in Lebanon and hot for Egypt--he gets booked for lots of interviews. The Maghreb adores him as he is a frequent guest on their music festivals. Iraqis are proud of him and his music. So this guy must be doing something or many things right.

He changes styles in between Iraqi blues, poetic romance, and pop and faster tracks songs. You cannot really put your finger on it, but you know you like him. He sings a song like if he had just opens his heart. His songs are so good that you think you have already touched the man's heart because does a fine job putting his sentiments on exhibit. I like the cover albums for this one, he is once again the classy guy we have come to expect from him.

This Iraqi singer just released a work of art album, an impressive 17 tracks. No one does that, and no one can afford this large track numbers. Majid does not need to worry about that, his fans love his work, and people give him their finest lyrics and music just to be on his album. Some have awesome title for Majid, like the prince of Arabic song. I like to dub him, the Lord of Arabic music. Not only is he a fine singer, he is also an accomplished composer who has given some of his work to his peers.

Majid tends to mix styles, he makes Gulf themed music catchier and this friendlier to the ear. He makes romance both the happy and the sad moods. He makes Egyptian and Lebanese pop songs that can and often does rival the most seasoned singer. It's no secret that the people who been talking about this album. I am certain, Rotana will be happy they have booked this artist. He might sell the most records for them this year. His fans are loyal and he always gives the reasons to be so.

When it comes to romance, Majid is a professor and we are all taking a course with him, but listening and studying his albums. The first five tracks are in the simplified Gulf Arabic, the sixth track is about Baghdad lover where you can dance. Track 9 has kinda of cool throwback music.  The rest are made for the Gulf listener.


01 - Ana Waiak
02 - Ya Yma
03 - 3la Babak
04 - Baien Ghalai
05 - Kef Te7sebha
06 - Ghazl Baghdadi
07 - Jet A7ebak
08 - Lait Lana
09 - Sa7arny 7laha
10 - Ya3ny Mohtam
11 - Ent Ana
12 - 3la El Zekra
13 - 3la Babak Wa2ef
14 - Raf Qalbi
15 - Zakarnakom
16 - Sabr Ayub
17 - Mawal Eza Ashofak

اغنية ماجد المهندس - انا وياك | من البوم انا وياك

ماجد المهندس انا حنيت


ماجد المهندس - جيت احبك 2012 - البوم انا وياك

Monday, September 24, 2012

Hamada Helal 2012 Album البوم حمادة هلال - متقولهاش



Egyptian pop star Hamada Hilal is one hot entertainer. when he is not busy making blockbuster movies, he is recording albums in the studio. The two careers often overlap, but one thing this is a gifted singer with a great sense of humor. He is due for a new album--he has not made one in years now.

The sample for his new yet to be released album is making the rounds on the internet. I have gave it a listen and I am serious, this is a good light pop album with fresh and fun lyrics. The music is catchy. Hamada makes it look easy to bring out the hits. He is a smart singer, he makes good choices that fit his style and advance his brand.

This is one family guy who knows pop and knows how to fire up a party. He is often doing them all over Egypt. In few short years Hilal has become a household name in Arabia, he is a lovable guy who lives in the real world. But he is more than pop too, he does romance and goes the blues. A lot of people like whatever songs he makes. I would say 80 percent of he makes is pure gold, the rest has its fans.

His 2012 album will have 10 tracks and you can hear the samples to hear for yourself the melodies and the lyrics. I love the third track because it comes in the Saaidy peasant dialect. We do not hear many of those songs going mainstream. Track four makes reference of Egypt number one goalkeeper Al Hadary, and Angelina Jolie.

01 - Aker We Aataref
02 - Asly We Fasly
03 - El Zeana El Aala
04 - Goan
05 - Haga Keda
06 - Malek Ya Donia
07 - Matoolhash
08 - Shof Men Emta
09 - Yarab Nefdal Keda
10 - Sponge Bob

اغنية سبونج بوب حمادة هلال

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Reviewed: Putumayo's Arabic Beat Album




Putumayo means “gushing river”, and this World Music label with its motto “ guaranteed to make you feel good,” has just released Arabic Beat, a follow up to its best-selling Arabic Groove.

This river gushes with danceable tracks from artists rocking the popular Arabic/Western vibe that translates well to clubs in the West. (Many of the disc’s artists are based in Europe or the U.S.; such as Noor in Barcelona, Watcha Clan in Marseille, Zein Al-Jundi in Austin, Texas).

Arabic Beat features more of the upbeat Middle Eastern and North African dance music that made Arabic Groove a global success. Inspired by music from across the globe but true to Arabic music’s deep roots, Arabic Beat tells the story of a thriving contemporary scene that stretches across the breadth of the Mediterranean.

Algerian style rai alternates with raqs sharki beats, both taking on Western flavors via sprinklings of instrumental sounds becoming familiar to the melting pot of immigrant communities in Europe. Upbeat like all the feel good Putumayo releases, this disc does contain some thoughts relevant to recent goings on in the Arab world, (Marcel Khalife’s Osfour interpreted here by Watcha Clan, is one.)

 Altogether a good sampling of what might be to Westerners some lesser known names on the contemporary Arabic music scene. The album will be picked by those casual Arabic music listeners who want a musically snack, nothing too complex and nothing too different. If this is something you desire, then pick the album up and take it for a joy ride.

Samira Said - Aal Eih

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Somali Canadian Hybrid K'naan Is "More Beautiful Than Silence"




More Beautiful Than Silence  was well received by critics where each track sounds completely different from the last, and although the record could be a pop smash, his message is never diluted in the melody.
K’Naan has the skills where his music packs creative melodies, poetic storytelling, and  the aspiration of an entire generation. soaring dreams on More Beautiful Than Silence. Die hard fans fans will love this musical treat, but the reality remains, are we ready for his next big thing? I do not think we are as a full project form this rapper will make waves in the rap industry.

I am comfortable to claim that his poetic lyrics come from his bringing and his culture where Arabia intersects Africa creating a beautiful lyrical miracles that were picked by young K'naan. The american culture provided him with rap as a tool to get those raging emotions out So far he has claimed a place in mainstream Hip-Hop. As far as messaging in music and imagery, I think he can rival household names of the likes Bob Dylan. Since K’naan’s mission is to inspire global change, he’ll welcome mainstream success; if it gets his message to the ears of more listeners, and encourages them to dream big. He is a star that world needs right now...as transfroation in the Middle East, America, Europe and the rest of the world is changing, K’naan brings a teaser for the future of entertainment.

K'naan fuses a wide array of styles and rhythms to deliver his African-influenced rap. He is already Africa's most famous native song rapper when his upbeat tune "Wavin' Flag" became a global hit after it was chosen as the official Coca-Cola anthem for the 2010 South Africa World Cup. A turning point in K'naan's career came as he stood in front of some of the world's most powerful men, stopped his performance to recite a politically-charged poem, blasting the U.N. for its failed relief mission in Somalia." This was a risky business, but K'naan had nothing to lose. After a brief moment of silence, he has earned himself an standing ovation.

Aside form his talent, the rapper comes with a grand story of survival so real and so shocking that it makes most inner city rappers look like they are form Kansas.  This is guy who lived in a war zone and moved into another one where most people tel of a rough life. No questions about it, the lyrically gifted rapper just can't help being a one-upper which makes him a perfect candidate for the job. 

Some have argued that K'naan should hone a message where he would tell his young fans "I did, you can too" message that could help make him a more accessible role model. He comes across as a rapper with a lot of faith as he makes reference to God very often. The internet is filled with K'naan's opinions of war peace and love too. But I think he still has a long way to go to trade in his microphone for a role model.    


"War has a way of making life painfully factual and love has a way of making life completely painfully dreamy, and I wanted to try to be honest about where I'm at in life," adds K'naan, 
K'naan- More beautiful than silence [with lyrics]



Lyrics: turn the light off there's a light on in your heart so let it be your guidens, guidens! Open up your mouth if what you say could be more beautiful than silence ok, ain't it funny how the talkers always talkin' never firing, but always say they cocking and they cocky until they in the parking lots suddenly they got parkinsons, they can hardly talk. no karate buddy, no pilates buddy it's a new game, no Atari buddy body chalk, well i'm used to bodies chopped i've seen shit to give new meaning to the body shop look, i know you think i'm so righteous but mother fucker, i'm also into rifles tryna tell these niggas i'm a baby in his diapers i'm on my own shit, lighters i don't disseminate, i got my name in... i don't discriminate, i got friends who are snipers but some of them ended up being lifeless cause they kept silent, survivors. turn the light off there''s a light on in your heart so let it be your guidens, guidens! open your mouthy, if you would say could be more beautiful than silence. i'm the quiet type, breathe and steady never small talk speak when necessary in the streets, i see niggers chops with machetes my jamaican girl say 'talk to me baby!' what''s on your mind can't say ... ..death do its part, memories, i marry got a library with no lies baby and all the books look like they're made of strawberries. it ain't easy being me cause my own fans can't relate to my streets and my streets can't relate to those in the east but i'm beats, so i make bread on release. I'm releasing my demons, give the beat it's life like I give a fetus semen. feel the kick in your belly, that's freedom breathing don't say nothing, cause now we're dreaming! turn the light off it's a light on in your heart so let it be your guides, guides! open your mouthy, if you would say could be more beautiful than silence, silence. oh, oh, oh, silence, silence oh, oh, oh, silence, silence oh, oh, oh, silence, silence oh, oh, oh, silence, silence

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Nahwa, The Surprisingly Good Retro Album البوم نهوى - ما جانى نوم 2012


When you are a young (and good looking) Lebanese woman, you have many ways of entering the music business. One particular lady had a different thought, I want to pay homage to those stars and singers who came before me by channeling their style and music, but I will do it with my own terms and my fresh content. This is a formula that few can master, form what we see so far, Nahwa has done very well.

She has already performed in concerts at home and abroad. She has just released her debut album with either amazing tracks, but that's not enough to get people talking with which Nahwa's fame would be shaped. She posed for a period cover album. She seems to have come form a long time ago, an era that we have always fancies and dubbed as "the good old days"

Therefore, Nahwa's album is dedicated to the Bedouin dialect, that is loved (and understood) all over the Arab world. I know, I am not the only one cheering this throwback to an era as it does not have to end with the charismatic diva Samira Tawfik.

01 - Allah Yekhaleki Yoma
02 - Atshana
03 - Janen Janen
04 - Lansob Khema
05 - Ma Gani Noom
06 - Mawal Hagrek
07 - Shbedak Bya
08 - Terqos Ala Geroohi

Nahwa - Ma jani Nom 2011(Original)


نهوى تصوِّر أغنيتين بكليبٍ واحدٍ