Hocine Benameur – Souk System (Hocine Benameur, 2023)
Hocine Benameur’s Souk System album presents a distinctive fusion of electronic and North African and Middle Eastern music, carving out a unique space within the contemporary world music landscape.
On Souk system you’ll find infectious rhythms delivered by traditional North African acoustic percussion, modern drums and seductive electronic dance music beats; Arabic melodies played on evocative oud, guitars, and keyboards; as well as tribal chants and vocals in various languages. Indeed, Hocine Benameur seamlessly intertwines Arabic, French, and a handful of Spanish and English words. As a result, Hocine Benameur skillfully transports the audience to distant lands, creating a captivating experience.
A true virtuoso, multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, Benameur adopted the persona of El Musafir, the traveler. He has collaborated extensively as a sideman and studio musician with internationally renowned artists across urban, world music, and international pop genres. His instrumental skill weaves together modernity and traditional repertoires seamlessly.
Born in France with a brief stint in Algeria, the city of Mâcon holds a special place in his life. That’s where at age 7 he started his musical studies at the Conservatory. Influenced by his father, a photographer, and a lover of diverse genres like funk, rock, and jazz, Hocine was initially attracted to classical guitar and various instruments, driven by an unwavering passion.
After he graduated with a Gold Medal from the Mâcon Conservatory, he established Studio H Saltimbanque, one of the first recording studios in Saône-et-Loire two decades ago.
Armed with a musicology degree from Lyon’s faculty, his career accelerated, touring with reggae and rap groups, sharing stages with renowned artists, and contributing to 25 albums for various record labels.
Lineup: Hocine Benameur on oud, piano, synthesizer, guitar, bass, percussion, vocals, and programming.
Guest musicians: Jean Philippe Gonnot on vocals; Wahid Chaib on vocals; Anouar El Fakir on synth; frederic Prébolin on piano; Jamal Chbani on vocals; cheb Mounir on vocals; and François Gallix on double bass.
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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.