The sound of ’70s Yemen collected on new 2xLP compilation

Chanting vocals mix with hypnotic drums, for fans of Maalem Mahmoud Gania.

A new double vinyl collection curated by Sub Rosa label is showcasing music from Yemen in 1973.

Music from Yemen Arabia includes 10 tracks recorded across the country at the capital city Sannaa, the sheikdom of Lahej and the port of Alden.

Yemeni music is similar in structure to Moroccan gnawa traditions, which also utilise a stringed lute alongside chanting and percussive elements.

Music From Yemen Arabia‘s songs range from the everyday ‘You Said That You Would Forget Me’ to the ceremonial ‘A’Zaffer Wedding Song’; they feature poetic verse set to rhythmic, repeating music using instruments including the oudh (lute) and the kanoun (zither), alongside percussion and singing.

Pre-order a copy of Music from Yemen Arabia here ahead of its 6th April release, listen to The Three Kawkabani Brothers’ ‘Al Sabah’ and check out the track list below.

Tracklist

2. Kawkabani Brothers – Wa Seed Ana Lak Min Al Khodan

3. Hassan Al Zabeede – Ana Mush Areemak 05:15

4. Hassan Al Zabeede – Tabal Samar

5. The Kawkabanis – Wa Mogarred Bi Wadi Aldoore

6. Saad Al Kawkabani – Ya Sabooh Al Enab

7. Hassan Zubeede – Leish Teguib

8. The Three Kawkabani Brothers – Al Sabah

9. Hassan Zubeede – Keef Faiah

10. Abdul, Mohammed And Saad Kawkaban – A’Zaffer Sanaa Wedding Song