Kolthoum, Oum / Al Atlal
Album: Al Atlal   Collection:World
Artist:Kolthoum, Oum   Added:Aug 2003
Label:S.I.D.I.  

A-File Activity
Add Date: 2003-08-18 Pull Date: 2003-10-20 Charts: Reggae/World
Week Ending: Oct 19 Aug 31 Aug 24
Airplays: 1 1 1

Recent Airplay
1. Jan 12, 2019: global sounds
Al Atlal
4. Feb 03, 2011: It's Bollywood
Al Atlal
2. Apr 21, 2016: Melange
Al Atlal
5. Mar 12, 2010: The Decency Flush
Al Atlal
3. Apr 07, 2011: Hi, Keefak, Ça va?
Al Atlal
6. Oct 15, 2003: press and release
Al Atlal

Album Review
Fo
Reviewed 2003-08-11
OUM KOLTHOUM – "Al Atlal (The Ruins)"
SIDI, 1966/1994

Oum Kolthoum (also spelled Oum Kalthoum, Om Kalsoum, or Umm Kulthum) was one of the towering figures of modern Arabic music. Known as "The Voice of Egypt," she started out as an unschooled folksinger, but gradually built herself into a preeminent interpreter of modern compositions (often written expressly for her), a strong businesswoman who controlled all aspects of her own career, and a powerful political voice. Her voice was everywhere: radio, TV, stage, and film. Her funeral in 1975 was attended by 3 million people.

This is a live performance of a single, extended song (a suite, really), recorded in 1966. The record is quite famous, and has been compared to an opera for one voice. Kalthoum is accompanied by a large violin section, bass and drum.

This is simply awesome stuff, full of drama, power and passion. The text is a love poem, but it's full of imagery that many interpreted as a critique of Egypt's repressive government.

Amazing music. Highest recommendation!

1. 39:54 – string intro, then alternates vocal sections with restatements of the melodic themes by the violins. It's a long haul, but excellent from start to finish.

[ Fo ] - 8/11/03

Track Listing
  1. Al Atlal