1970s Algerian Folk & Pop
1970s Algerian Folk & Pop (Sublime Frequencies, SF088CD, 2014)
This compilation includes recordings from early 1970s Algeria. Although the title says folk and pop, the selection includes more than that. The music ranges from 1960s-style pop, surf and psychedelia to more modern rock oriented material. Western pop and rock influences are evident throughout most of the tracks.
Most of the material was originally released as 45 rpm singles, the leading format during the early 1970s before the cassette became popular. Highlights include the two pieces of psychedelic Arabic rock by Rachid & Fethi: ‘Habit en Ich’ and ‘Ana Ghrib’; the lounge instrumental ‘Hawajez’ by Ahmed Malek (who is also present with a Procol Harum-style electric organ instrumental); and ‘Nadia’, a great Arabic rock instrumental featuring electric guitar and darbuka drums by Les Djinns.
1970s Algerian Folk & Pop was compiled by Hicham Chadly. The CD digipak edition includes photos from the period and liner notes by Omar Zelig.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
