Aktar Wahed

by Victor W. ValdiviaAktar Wahed contains some of Amr Diab's most Westernized music to date, as well as some of his most traditional. Not only is there an appearance by an uncredited rapper on "Wala Ala Balah", the club beats of "Wala Liylah" ensure that this is as modern as any Top 40 hit. In addition, Diab also incorporates many other Western rhythms, such as salsa on "Olt Eih and even a hint of reggae on "Ahibbak Akrahak. At the same time, Diab's vocals are at their richest, most traditional, especially on "Ba'ed El Layali", where he shines especially well. Similarly, his vocals are just as compelling (though much more restrained) on the ballad "Sada'ni Khalass". The polished production does sometimes tend to make the songs blend into each other a bit much, but it also gives Diab more room to experiment with different sounds and textures, and overall, the album holds up well, with no misfires or slow spots. Aktar Wahed is a superb introduction to Amr Diab's talents.