Maha

In 70’s & 80’s Egypt, a new generation of musicians were innovating upon tradition. While names like Hany Shenoda (of Al Massrieen), Salah Ragab and Hamid Al Shaeri are known, the arrival of the cassette age was a turning point in the proliferation of smaller acts and record labels dedicated to a particular sound without the barriers present in making vinyl records. Maha's “Orkos,” originally released on cassette in 1979 in Cairo, is one of these standout musical diamonds that combines Jazz and Egyptian vocal traditions with Funk, Latin and Soul. At one time playing with Salah Ragab's The Cairo Jazz Band, "Orkos," Maha's sole recording outing, immediately catches your ears as a unique and timeless release, and features some rich compositions and productions by renown Egyptian musician Hany Shenoda. From the funk sounds of “Law Laffeina El Ard,” the moody, mellow sounds of “Kabl Ma Nessallem We Nemshy” or “We Mesheet,” to excursions into Latin sounds in the title track “Orkos,” and disco with “Ana Gaya,” the album is a beautiful amalgamation of genres that stands out from the immense creativity present in Egypt at the time.