The most acclaimed Algerian female singer, Souad Massi released her new album “El Mutakallimûn” (Masters of the Word) at the end of April. Accompanied by oud, piano, guitar, banjo and (electric) piano, she intertwines Medieval Arabic poems with 21st century protest songs.

Artist with multi-cultural roots, Iness Mezel will sound unique or even exotic for every ear regardless where the listener comes from. There are Middle Eastern melodies in her music, but there’s also American funk and soul – and obviously jazz. There’s trance, and there’s a kind of desert-y ambience. And there’s of course Iness’ spectacular voice. This amazing song comes from her debut solo album, aptly titled “Beyond The Trance”.