Middle Rastern Rock

The guys at Hipwax.com (I know not their names) have given this album a 9 and I whole heartedly agree. This record is way ahead of its time clocking in years before System of a Down or even Mr. Bungle. A true crossover pioneer disc. It melds middle eastern instruments and rhythms with 60s rock. There is early fuzz guitar solos, baritone sax, oud, traditional middle eastern percussion, a standard drum kit and one track with Armenian singing. Not to mention the photo on the back of John Berberian sporting his Elvis/Gene Vincent  greased hair-do and sideburns. Read more…

Vinyl record covers discussed. This episode: Arabia. Hosted by Rich Bachelor and Mark Mager. StylusCast from Downtown Portland, home of the world’s most mediocre vinyl scene. Each week we discuss 5 albums selected by the merit of their covers (usually). Taste even more magic at www. coolalbumcovers.com.

Eddie ‘The Sheik’ Kochak “Strictly Belly Dancing” 1973 Scepter Records
Eddie ‘The Sheik’ Kochak “Strictly Belly Dancing Vol 2″ 1975 Scepter Records.
Toraia Orchestra of Algiers “Belly Dance! (The Wild Music and the How-To!)” 1975 Pickwick Records
Artie Barsamian and his Orchestra “The Seventh Veil” 1959 Four Corners Records
John Berberian and the Middle Eastern Ensemble “Middle Eastern Rock” 1969 Verve Records.  Read more…