Cheb Mami

A watershed release for Cheb Mami, Dellali was a keystone in rai's transition from Algerian immigrant music to hip European pop. "Ana Oulache" may be the most successful track, with an epic feel that encompasses both a live choir and drum 'n' bass beats, but the African-influenced "Mamazareh" runs a close second.

A recognizable commodity in America since Sting's "Desert Rose" (which featured the
singer as second vocalist), Algerian-bred Cheb Mami -- the most prominent Rai singer in the
world -- is perched on the precipice of domestic stardom. In an apparent effort to make
the final leap, this disc has been buffed, polished and practically removed from the World
Music realm. Unlike his prior efforts, which were somewhat rhythm machine lad... More >