A review of the best dancin’ music of 2011 to suit a variety of tastes, just in time for the holidays! If you’re looking to expand your music collection check out this post as part of my ‘Best of 2011’ series.
Belly Dance Mirage
Ya Salam Orchestra
Style: Classic or vintage Egyptian Cabaret
Suitable for: Intermediate to Advanced dancers
Notes: This album has a definite vintage, sometimes even folkloric, feel to it. There’s a nice mix of routines, including a few drum solos and some traditional songs. These would make great routines for a more formal or ethnic venue.
The King of Egyptian Tabla
Gamal Gomaa
Style: Egyptian Drum Solos
Suitable for: Low Intermediate to Advanced dancers
Notes: This is a nice collection of drum solos that stand out from the predictable, indistinct drumming that makes for great practice but might be a bit boring for the stage. Gamal Gomaa is truly a master percussionist and he fuses traditional and modern elements well.
Boz in Oz
Jim Boz
Style: Fusion (Electronic)
Suitable for: Beginner through Advanced dancers
Notes: This album is an interestingly distinct fusion of eastern and western rhythms and elements with a definite electronic feel. It’s very powerful, and there’s a nice mix of slower and faster songs. This is perfect for Tribal or Tribaret work.
Bellydance Superstars, Vol. 9
Various Artists
Style: Mixed (Egyptian pop, techno-arabic, fusion, sha’abi, classical, etc.)
Suitable for: Beginners to Advanced dancers
Notes: In the tradition of the Bellydance Superstars, there’s a little something for everyone here. I have to admit I think this is one of their better albums.
Pulse of the Sphinx, Vol. 2
The Henkesh Brothers
Style: Egyptian Rhythm Drills
Suitable for: Beginners to Advanced dancers
Notes: This album is composed of 31 very short (1 to 2 minute) drum solos great for students learning their rhythms. For advanced dancers willing to edit their music, there’s the potential to string together a few tracks and integrate them into a routine.
Let me know if you end up getting one. I’d like to hear your review! Or tell me if I missed something that should be on this list.
Ask Ananke 