Haflet Dubai 2014
Abdul Majeed Abdullah
(Rotana)
Four stars
Any appearance by Abdul Majeed Abdallah is news. Hence, his concert that took place at Dubai's Madinat Arena in March – his first UAE performance in 15 years – was eagerly anticipated. The double album is the full recording of the sold-out show and captures all the excitement of the shrieking crowd. Abdullah's 23-song set touched upon most aspects of his 30-year career. The album is also an illustration that Khaleeji music, with its orchestral flavours, is best appreciated live. The emotive strings in Yahlamoun are the perfect accompaniment to Abdullah's buttery croon. The intro of Ahbes El Aabrat is captivating, as gently plucked guitars and strings team up with the cooing backing vocalists to create an almost cinematic effect. Abdullah then arrives on top of that trademark Khaleeji syncopated beat with his yearning vocals. The second CD is heavier on ballads, with Estagsarak and the closer Khalas Henek acting as hand-waving anthems. Haflet Dubai 2014 is not only a document of one of the UAE's biggest Arab concerts, but a tribute to one of the region's greats.
