Habibi Funk is the truth. The Berlin-based label is doing the most, revealing seldom heard sides of music from the Arab world with this stunning compilation. Western ears generally have a preconceived notion of what Arabic music sounds like, and Habibi Funk pretty much blows that out of the water. Algerian coladera, Lebanese AOR, Egyptian disco, Moroccan funk, and Sudanese jazz are just some of the styles brought to the surface here. Label head Jannis Stuertz digs deeper than your average to deliver an incredibly eclectic compilation that will surprise even the most jaded collector. Features tracks from Fadoul, Belbao, Mallek Mohammed, Kamal Keila, Dalton, Al Massrieen, and a gang of other artists that you haven't heard of. Each track is officially licensed and the album even features 5 completely unreleased tracks on vinyl for the first time. A 12 page booklet reveals even more about each track via detailed liner notes. Recommended.

• black double vinyl pressing
• includes 5 previously unreleased tracks
• 12 page booklet w/ extensive liner notes
• digital download included
• music label: Habibi Funk Records 2017

reviewed by Al Pastor 02/2018