Nothing quite like the album that reminds you of how little you know about the world, and how much great music is out there. Now over two decades into her cultures-crossing career, Anglo-Egyptian Atlas is one of those no-job-too-daunting artists whose choices inspire you to stay hungry and take opportunities as they prevent themselves. After listening to this travel will be the first thing on many a mind – the soundtrack is already sorted.
From early champion Jah Wobble through to genre shredders Transglobal Underground and on to sublime solo work, every song on Habibi has a surprise, whether it's Atlas pushing from Russia with Love further to the south or making the times when you don't understand what she's singing as intoxicating as when you do. There is more mystery, longing and danger here than most performers could manage in two lifetimes and amidst all the twists one certainty: any music fan will find gold for under a tenner.
How apt that she's included her version of I Put a Spell on You.
Harry Guerin
