Various Artists - Musique Chaabi D'algerie (Various Artists) (CD)

Chaâbi is a musical genre that needs no introduction in Algeria. In fact, it's one of the country's most popular. Whether for religious celebrations, christenings or weddings, it accompanies Algerians throughout their lives. For many, it's a music capable of making them forget their misery, hunger and thirst. The genre is a crystallization of the cultural mix present in the country. The term "chaâbi" means "popular", and comes from the word "chaab" meaning "the people". However, the use of the word "chaâbi" as a denomination for this type of music only became established after Algerian independence (1962). This urban-inspired genre is an integral part of Algeria's heritage, having originated in the Casbah of Algiers in the early 20th century. It's a well-known fact that music softens morals, and this is more than necessary when one is subjected to a violent colonial system. The Algerian people have been subjected to a devaluation of their culture and history. We can see this musical genre as a strong resistance and an essential vector of identity. We'll see how chaâbi, the hymn of the Casbah, stands out as the bearer of the people's demands.