Maryam Mursal, The Journey (Real World) 9+
The Arabic influences are strong, and more engaging than any of the recent Egyptian and Moroccan releases I've heard. The album is one of the best examples of a successful postmodern mix of Mursal's native influences, Egyptian, electronic music, French-produced Afro-Pop, and even Chinese Bluegrass! Her story is equally amazing. Mursal fled Somalia with five children in tow at the height of the civil war. Her seven month journey consisted of walking and riding on donkeys and trucks through the desert until she reached safety at a Danish refugee camp. There she was discovered by an arranger who brought her to the attention of Peter Gabriel's Real World label. She recorded the album with the group Waaberi, who came out with their own album last year, and the renowned Egyptian percussionist Hossam Ramzy. You can see Mursal on tour this summer with Africa Fete. See their webpage for concert dates.
