Safoua | Kont Errah (El Fen)

 

This lovely, driving record by Tounisian singer Safoua has an understated power that rewards multiple listens. Although undated, we believe this single is from the 1970s, although this is just a guess. Random note: If you look closely near the bottom right-hand corner, you'll see the words "Photo: X," as if the photographer had yet to be identified -- or, perhaps, "X" was the shutter jockey's nom de plume.

The two tracks on this 45 were later collected on a cassette, Nestahel, published by legendary Moroccan label Boussiphone. You can find a bit more about Safoua on the Arab Tunes blog, along with a selection of assorted other tracks.

(Listen to "Kont Errah")

(Listen to "Moula Echach")