Fatma Said - El Nour (LP, 2021)

This LP is pressed on 180g vinyl.

Fatma Said, the acclaimed Egyptian soprano known for her luminous and richly colored voice, makes a stunning debut with "El Nour," a captivating recital album that seamlessly blends the boundaries of classical and traditional music. Released in 2020 under Warner Classics, this enchanting collection of 17 tracks spans a duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, offering a unique fusion of French, Spanish, and Egyptian compositions, along with Egyptian folk songs and popular Middle Eastern melodies.

"El Nour," which translates to "light," begins with Maurice Ravel's evocative song cycle "Shéhérazade," setting the tone for an exploration of cultural intersections and vocal mastery. The album features a diverse range of works, including pieces by Manuel de Falla, Joaquín Rodrigo, Hector Berlioz, and Georges Bizet, alongside traditional Egyptian and Arabic songs. Highlights include the enchanting "La flûte enchantée" from Ravel's "Shéhérazade," the lively "Anda jaleo" from Federico García Lorca's "13 Canciones españolas antiguas," and the hauntingly beautiful "Aatini Al Naya Wa Ghanni," a traditional Egyptian song.

Fatma Said's extraordinary vocal range and expressive depth shine throughout the album, as she effortlessly navigates the intricate melodies and rich harmonies of each piece. Her ability to infuse each song with authenticity and passion makes "El Nour" a standout debut, showcasing her versatility and artistry. Whether you're a fan of classical music, traditional Middle Eastern melodies, or simply appreciate the beauty of the human voice, "El Nour" is an album that will captivate and inspire.