Delving into the deepest recesses of raï, this compilation serves as a tribute to its roaring years, but also as a rejuvenation of the genre in its sulphurous, subterranean version. It seemed like a good idea to dig into nearly untraceable cassettes, thus confirming it’s in the oldest of Oranese pots that the very best of raï is to be found. Just 50 years ago, no one would have believed even a bit in a genre seemingly bound to forever turn round and round in its native Oran, laying low in one of its many coastal road clubs.
The Arab Orchestra of Barcelona was born in the late twentieth century in Barcelona and up musicians from different backgrounds, such Chefchaoen, Tangiers or Thessaloniki. Its founding members are Mohamed Soulimane (director and violin) and Mohamed Ayoub Bout (voice).