Samra

Faudel co-wrote 10 of the 13 songs, and on "Salsa Rai" sings with Yuri Bonaventura. Track # 7, "Je Me Souviens", is a seductive ballad that's a knock-out, and the track I'm most likely to hit the re-play button on, but there isn't a weak song on the entire CD.

The packaging also gets my highest rating. It's in the sturdy cardboard case that is being used nowdays, and that I appreciate so much (no more "teeth" breaking off from the disc grip), and this one has a double fold-out for the lyrics (in Spanish, French, and transliterated Arabic) and recording info. Total time is 55:09.
This is one of the very best recently released non-classical CDs I've heard. Exciting stuff, expertly performed and presented.


This CD is Hot!   May 13, 2002
 1 out of 2 found this review helpful

This Cd is definitely enjoyable... I love listening it to it when Im about to go out or when Im just feeling down its an awesome CD!!! Its definitely diffrent and pleasing...plus FAUDEL is soooo cute...:)


A Tous Mes Amies.... Faudel is fantastic!   May 9, 2002
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

When I left Marseille in 2000, I picked up Faudel's 1998 release... and discovered a new world of sound and love of music. They try to put Faudel into a category... into a little column, but just as he did in his last release, SAMRA breaks all the chains they've placed upon him. When you listen, you'll be taken from Algiers, to Marseille, to Paris, and back down to Madrid... who knows where you'll end up.... Faudel is limitless....


The Voice of Enchantment   January 10, 2002
 3 out of 3 found this review helpful

Move over khaled, Mami and Taha to make room for a new generation of rai. Faudel is a young new artist whose talent is met with unprededented enthusiasm. His music depicts a variety of styles which appeals to a diversified spectrum of populations, with his soft and soulful voice moving from the Salsa rai to the balladry of Je Me Souviens to the dancefloor beats of Rohi. Faudel's music enters the heart and nourishes the soul. As I close my eyes and listen to his soft warm voice, I drift into a dreamlike state that's neverending...It's magical and Faudel's music is sensational. Samra is a must buy album. There's a beat in it for everyone.


Samra!   July 26, 2001
 4 out of 5 found this review helpful

Faudel has arrived! His second release is as good as his first (Baida) or even better! Faudel has a very passionate voice and truly sings from the heart. Track #1 Leila is destined to become a sure hit at Arabic discos and night clubs. Track #4 Salsa Rai will move you! Samra manages to combine very traditional Arabic instruments such as Kanun (by Elie Achkar one of the greatest Kanunist from Lebanon), Oriental percussions in perfect harmony with the Western Guitar, Drums and Piano! Listening tip: Turn up the volume and be sure to use your replay button!