Fil waha-at the oasis

On this album, pan-Middle Eastern ensemble Helm attempted a return to tribal roots, playing music drawn from and inspired by the entire Muslim world, from the Tuareg of the Sahara and Turkish Gypsies to upper Egypt and the Bandar region of southern Iran, all on acoustic instruments. The result is quite inspired, ranging from traditional pieces like Gargabas, Insabah and Lorke Lorke, to original compositions like the vibrant Raqs il Shams, the stately Huriyah and the folkloric Jamilo. Traditional instruments like the tabla, ney, mizmar and rebab mix with strong rhythms and festive ululations. The result is quite enjoyable. Bellydancers, particularly those with tribal fusion inclinations, will appreciate the complexity and length of these pieces. I strongly recommend checking out this CD, but be aware that it has been recently re-released, with several tracks redone and one (Raqs Siri’a) has been dropped. If you want the originals, they are still available as downloads through iTunes, but either way the CD is superb.

Track Listings

1. Gargabas

2. Insabah

3. Raqs li Shams

4. Waqt il Asil

5. Lorke Lorke

6. Jamilo

7. F’il Waha

8. Huriyah

9. Raqset il Olall

10. Raqs Siri’a

11. Dukhan

12. Magaree

13. Asal