HAMIK
Yaho (Mondo Melodia)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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I'm assured Hakim is very big in Egypt. I don't really follow the Egyptian charts closely, so I don't know if that's true, or if what he does is at all typical of what shows up on the Egyptian charts, but after a couple of spins of Yaho, I might have to start paying more attention.

Hakim walks a musical tightrope, trying to maintain an attachment to the traditional sha'bi music of his homeland while appealing to new generations and a world audience with the introduction of modern dance beats. It's a tough line to walk, and one that's proven beyond the abilities of many to tread. For examples, check out many of the Afro-pop acts that find themselves becoming far more pop than Afro after a trip or two to the studios of Paris.

Hakim's sound on Yaho is indisputably middle-eastern, with traditional instrumentation holding a prominent role in the mix, but it's also highly accessible to my western ears. The World Music purists may not appreciate the synthesis, but for those whose ears are a bit more open, this is a great way to get to know a fascinating talent.

Track List:

El Wala Wala * Esma Yalli * Yaho * Habbena * Ansa Azabi * Ana Ahebbak * El Bi Hebeni El * Yimin We Shemal * Bashaka * Ululu * Khalini Baeed * Ayunu Nar * Garh El Hawa * Habibi Ya

© 2001 - Shaun Dale