Finding the right music is one of the most exciting & important things that a bellydancer can do when preparing for a performance. We want to have music that we can “feel” and express ourselves to for our audience. Having a catchy beat is a consideration, too. I found two exciting CD’s that meet those needs: “One Thousand and One Nights” and “Bellydance Superstars” both by Ark 21 Records.
The “One Thousand and One Nights” CD is an interesting collection of remixes by Lebanese DJ Said Mrad. Said uses popular songs and adds a new millennium twist, dance club/house style to the songs that definitely get you moving. This 8 track CD is an inviting change of pace from traditional songs used in bellydancing. Of the songs on this project, track #2 “Where Do We Begin (Hikaya)”,is probably my favorite. My personal opinion is that this CD would be an excellent choice for an audience that is not necessarily familiar with traditional bellydancing songs and or for a younger type audience, giving its “house music” stylings.This CD was in heavy rotation in my car for quite a while. It was also a favorite of my instructor, Nabeela el Shalimar, who often played the disc during class. Mostly instrumental, the songs, catchy and upbeat, inspire energized dancing and movements. The songs also have a dramatic flair to them as well.
The 2nd CD, “Bellydance Superstars” is a best-of compilation by some of the top bellydance stars in the country. This 16 track CD, covers a wide range of music styles from classic favorites to more contemporary, upbeat grooves.This CD was sharing heavy rotation time with “One Thousand and One Nights”. What I really liked about the music on this one was the fact that, as mentioned above, dance superstars like Veena & Neena, Jillina, Suhaila Salimpour and Amar Gamel (to name a few) have selected some of their favorite songs that make up this compilation. Whatever kind of mood you want to convey in a dance performance can be achieved with songs from this one CD…whether you want hip and upbeat or more slow & dramatic, its here.
Ark 21 did a great job with these releases. For more information on other Ark 21 and their music projects, visit their website: www.ark21.com
