Aug 11th, 2008 · These days, it's been eclipsed by rai music, rap and Western pop. But long ago, the musical form adapted from Andalusian traditions filled the casbahs of Algeria with poetic melodies, exotic instrumentation and stories of love and loss.
Nov 27th, 2007 · For more than three decades, Shah Mohammed Rais has sold books and maps to Afghans and foreigners in Kabul. A Norwegian author wrote a book about Rais, but the bookseller claims it ruined his life. Now he's decided to get even by writing his own book.
Jun 27th, 2005 · Khaled is Algeria's best-known singer. He has become internationally known for singing Rai, the music of Algeria's shantytowns. His new album, Ya Rayi, features collaborations with a wide variety of musicians and producers, including guitarist Carlos Santana. Banning Eyre has a review.