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Algerian Djamel (guitar and lead vocals) and the five other members of the band (variously keyboards, bass, drums, sax, backing vocals and lots of extra percussion) extend their invitation "to experience a musical journey where east meets west in a fusion of world beat grooves and energetic ethno-pop". It's the gratuitous populist elements I don't like on this album. For example, the 'waaaayohhh' call and crowd response of 'Koubaily' is annoying stadium rock antics and a distraction when the track hots up later on.

Djamel says his worldbeat is a "groove cocktail of Maghreb, Latin, African and Caribbean influences. Gnawa-trance, Rap, Rai Rock or Jazz mixed with Salsa, Oriental and Funk Grooves". Normally this a good sign but on some of the tracks it is overwhelming. More of a kitchen sink throwing exercise. One of the best/worst examples of this is 'Maal Maa', a Kenny G style jazz-funker with French rap vocals plus a sugary singsong chorus and an 80s rock guitar/synth clash ending; it really is that extreme.

On the positive side, throughout the 14 tracks on the CD, the musicianship is excellent. The opening track 'Laâfou' is a simple percussion with vocal harmonies and much the better for it. 'Manandobo' is similarly good. Throughout Djamel struggles at times to curb his Carlos Santana axe hero worship leanings and fails altogether in this task on 'Aho', which up until then is great. I'm sure the band forgive him as he makes up for it with some quite superb solos; especially on 'Mazal' and 'N'Kodo'.

No doubt, there will be hits to come for Mr. Laroussi. The original version of 'Etoile Filante' has apparently already been a hit single and gets the crowd going in ecstatic clap along mood. I have to concede that there is a Radio 2 type beauty to 'Maal Maa', which is a natural crowd swayer.

There are 9 tracks on the DVD and all are all on the CD. Unfortunately it is not a great viewing experience. More of a point the camera at the band type film. Personallym I prefer this when it's the musicianship we've come to hear. Even so, I'd say stick with the CD.

There's no denying they are a busy live band as they have just finished a 14-gig tour of Germany this month. The end of February 2005 sees them in Austria and Italy (see their web site below for further details).

This isn't a bad set and repeated listens will reap their rewards. Even thought the material is a strange mix, the CD/DVD would not put me off going to see them live. But until he reaches the UK it's, merci et à bientôt.

Dadoua Music - DAD 006
Distribution in France : Night & Day
Release Date : October 2004

Links:
www.djamellaroussi.com
A more positive review...