This came out in 2002 – or at least that’s when I got it. Here’s what I said about it back then (with some minor editing):
If you buy just one belly-dance album this year, make it this one. Hell, if you buy just one belly-dance album in your life — which is probably more realistic — this is still the one to go for.
Why? Well, for one thing, it seems George Abdo was to the belly dance what Frankie Yankovic was to the polka. And for another, this collection compiles 15 of his best-loved ’70s classics like Ya Gameel, Min Feegis, Noora ya Noora and the unforgettable Ruh Tum Bi Salama, all of which boast seductively serpentine rhythms, blistering bouzouki licks and plenty of pinging finger cymbals. And finally, there’s the vintage picture of Abdo on the back cover, complete with feathered hair, disco-era sideburns and authentic polyester leisure suit — unbuttoned to mid-sternum to show off his chest hair and gold chain, natch. All of which make this an album that must be heard — and seen — to be believed. Even if you only listen to it once in your life.
