Ana Hina

Natacha Atlas is nothing short of amazing. Aside from possessing a phenomenal voice, she is one of those artists who constantly can re-invent themselves with each new release, freely blending Arabic, western and even eastern influences together to create something new. And she does so once again on 'Ana Hina,' her most recent release. Actually, it might be more accurate to say that this album is a return to her roots, as it were, as her gentle, melodic voice takes center stage here, accompanied by a lush, rich orchestra that would have been well suited to the great legends of classical Arabic music. Appropriately enough, Natacha Atlas uses this as a chance to cover songs made famous by her heroes like Abdel Halim Hafez and the legendary Fairuz of Lebanon. She also does a stunning rendition of 'Lammebada,' a classical Andalusian mwashah that dates back to Moorish Spain, and an original piece called 'El Noum' which was inspired by the work of Zad Moultaka. But true to her eclectic and ever nomadic style, Natacha Atlas' influences range well beyond the Arabic-speaking world. She also performs everything from an original Frida Kahlo song ('La Vida Callada') to the Appalachian ballad 'Black is the Colour.' The latter song is especially well-suited for Natacha Atlas' voice and melissmatic style of singing, allowing her to showcase her talents in a language western audiences might be more familiar with. There is a re-interpretation of 'Hayati Inta,' from her recent 'Mish Maoul' album, and another original composition titled 'He Hesitated,' a song about a soldier deciding whether or not to shoot. It is especially poignant in light of the unfortunate recent US-led invasion of Iraq, and Israel's attacks on Lebanon. Over all, this is yet another excellent release from Natacha Atlas. Those of you fortunate enough to have seen her in concert recently (as I was) will no doubt recognize some of the songs she sings here. And if you haven't, then I really suggest picking up this CD. It's really a return to Cairo's 'golden age' of Arabic music. Even if you've never heard Natacha Atlas before, if you love the music of Abdel Halim Hafez, Oum Kalthoum, Fairuz, Farid al-Atrache, Muhammad Abdel Wahhab and the like, then you will fall in love with Natacha Atlas' unique style of music. And also check out her recent 'Mish Maoul' album and the 'Best of Collection.'

While driving one day and listening to NPR radio, an interview with Natacha Atlas caught my attention. I was at my destination,but remained in the car to continue listening to her music/interview. I immediately researched this artist and ordered two CD's! Her voice and the use of various ethnic instruments moves the listener toward the music of the spheres.

The CD was in good condition as well as the musical reproduction. Of the number of Natasha atlas albums I possess I was least impressed with this one. Somewhat lackadaisical and somber. S.T.

Natacha Atlas is one of my favorite bellydance artists. I'm an American Tribal Style dancer. This is a beautiful album to listen to, but none of these tracks are very danceable.

Shoulda been good. The music sounds acceptable, if not crisp, but the vocal mic was bafflingly lodged between the vocalist and a wool-stuffed pillow, and awfully dry as they didn't record the acoustic room along with the performance, as all the really great recordings have done. I thought the CD would sound better than the MP3 available online, but, sadly, the whole session has a wet-blanket aural quality, and the booklet states "recorded...at home." A wire recording from the 1940s would've resulted in something hot. Somebody needs to EQ this so it sounds as vibrant as the vocal obviously was, if it's ever to be re-issued again, as it deserves.

Gran álbum de Natacha Atlas con banda en directo, hace un recorrido por todos los estilos musicales del mediterráneo. Una preciosidad

I heard about Natacha Atlas for the first time when she released Ana Hina, either on Radio 4s: "Womans Hour" or 3s: "Late Junction" or maybe both. Sometimes you hear an artist and you know in an instant that you must possess the music. Ana Hina was the next album that I purchased. This lady really has the voice of an angel, there is no other description which would do her justice, and just like a grand master running their own school of art, she has surrounded herself throughout her career with the finest musicians, from all over the place, in a myriad of styles of utmost beauty. On this album she has gone for a folky sound and has assembled musicians from all over the Middle East and North Africa. I seem to remember from the interview that she recorded it in either Willesden or Harlesden. Lucky us! When I say folk, I don't just mean from one place. "La Vida Collada" is a Mexican (revolutionary) song, presented in the most perfect, breathtaking harmony you will ever hear. If that doesn't blow you away, then first listen to the old scottish ballad "Black is the Colour" (of my loved one's hair), first on Paul Weller's album of covers and then on Ana Hina. Man, this lady really grabs my heart and gives it a squeeze! I am proud to say I am a fan! I've even written to the Royal Festival Hall on the Southbank and asked them to feature her and her band! (So, Yoko, if you read this, Pleeease!) Sadly, I cannot give you a rundown on either instruments or styles due to my ignorance. Suffice to say, I now own Mounqaliba, Mishmaoul, Ayeshteni, Foretold in the Language of Dreams, Something Dangerous and the greatest hits "Best of", which we actually played at this year's family Christmas party. For my money, the greatest (generally undiscovered) artist in the world at the moment. Everybody I have introduced to Ms Atlas's music has loved it, and this purchase was for my daughter, who had expressed her appreciation for this great artist. I don't know what else to say apart from if this album doesn't grab you then you're probably made of stone!

nikel

Album envoûtant

Beautiful and relaxing music. The best album of Natacha Atlas so far. Nice mix of different styles. Buy and Listen !