Nagham Fi Hayati

Born in Syria in 1910, Farid El Atrache was an icon of 20th-century Arab music and culture. Having moved to Egypt at a young age, El Atrache was influenced by his mother to take up singing and oud playing, and began his professional career playing on national radio in the 1930s. He would soon attain superstar status in the burgeoning Egyptian film industry as a lead actor and composer, his exceptional instrumental skills earning him the nickname the ‘King of Oud.’ Nagham Fi Hayati is a vinyl reissue of El Atrache's eponymous soundtrack to the 1974 film, in which he also starred. Released in the year of his death, the record gained cult status on the Arabic club scene – the track ‘Hebina Hebina’ in particular – and was later championed by producer Brian Eno as one of his favourite albums.

The songs are lengthy and romantic, with El Atrache's passionate yet melancholic voice accompanied by an ensemble of instruments both traditional and modern, the lush arrangements bolstered by a sweeping Egyptian string orchestra. El Atrache's virtuosic oud prowess is stunningly displayed on ‘Takassim Oud’ – the complete performance of which is presented here for the first time. With the original artwork restored and brand new liner notes, Nagham Fi Hayati is an essential reissue of a revered classic of Arabic music.