by Omar Souleyman
Syria's biggest musical export; Omar Souleyman comes through with his first full studio album titled Wenu Wenu. Produced by Kleran Hebden (Four Tet), the album marks the next step in Omar's unfolding relationship with western audiences. Having now toured the international festival circuit heavily, including spots at prestigious events such as Sonar, his sound has moved from initially being an exotic import, to a celebrated component of the current dance music landscape. While America's bloated EDM movement stalls, Omar Souleyman offers an exciting alternative.
For those worried that as a studio album it might herald a departure from signature frenetic dance music, the album remains faithful to his legacy. With all 7 tracks pointed directly at the dancefloor, this is music to blast through your stereo, not for intimate headphone listening. The drum machines are cheap and the hookahbar synths blaring! Four Tet's influence only seems to manifest in some very subtle production details, giving the album a sonic clarity lacking on previous releases.
On the whole a powerful album, though I suspect those who will get the most joy from this are listeners who've experienced his live show.
by Lewis Cacut
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