Bellylicious

• Artist: Various Artists
• Release Date: June 24, 2003
• Type: Collection (various artists)
• Genre: World

Review

It seems that everything is getting thrown into the belly dance mix these days; it doesn't have to originate in the Middle East or North Africa. On this compilation, for example, several of the tracks have Indian flavors, such as Shabaz or Dhol Foundation. Put together in the U.A.E., this leans heavily to the electronica side of the spectrum, although it's not part of the Arab-esque movement per se. There are some excellent tracks that up the bpm to giddy speeds, such as Oojami's "Chicky." "The Zaar Beats [Dub Version]" is also a standout, but unfortunately many of the others pass by too easily (although the sequencing is excellent, really letting the tracks flow). Ultimately, there's not a whole lot to make this stand out from many similar samplers; it's pleasant enough, and fine for its intended use -- dancing. But as listening material, it's only average. ~ Chris Nickson, Rovi

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