Khaled - Ya-rayi (Ger) (CD)

All Music Guide

Khaled is the biggest star of Algerian raï, a global superstar these days. But as his fame increased, the quality of his music declined. The raw, emotive style that made him successful in the first place was smoothed off and he became an international pop icon whose raï was diluted. This time around, he's confounded expectations by making what's his best album in over 10 years. To be fair, it starts off tentatively with “Mani Hani," whose fake classical piano intro doesn't bode well for the rest of the track, but from the title cut onwards it's a powerhouse. There's plenty of sophistication in the arrangements, but also a strong sense of rootedness. This is very definitely a raï record, flavored not only by Algeria, but the entire Mediterranean, sunny, and overflowing with warmth Khaled himself even plays accordion on several cuts. Good as most of the album, is, “H'Mama" is the standout, with Khaled's mesmermizing vocal taqsim, or opening improvisation before the track really lets loo...se. But all over there are wonderful touches in the Egyptian strings, slinky, funky rhythms, and great swathes of memorable melodies. This is a great artist showing exactly what he can do. - Chris Nickson, All Music Guide Read more Less