The Rough Guide to the Music of Palestine

Less than 20 years ago, a representative of the Palestinian National Authority in London warned me that “there wasn't much music being made” in his homeland. He was, of course, absolutely wrong, but it goes to show just how much the politics of the region overshadowed its music. However, even that short while ago there was nothing like the richness of contemporary performers to be heard on this compilation: among the 15 tracks here is everything from out-there metal to Arabesque bebop, from laid-back hip– hop to sophisticated urban folk.

What is notable by its absence is music that sounds deeply Arab in the traditional sense, though this should come as no surprise to anyone who has spent any time in Palestine. The lands and people are simultaneously cut off from their immediate neighbours and yet extraordinarily cosmopolitan as a result of diaspora and years of international attention. Little of the music here is exceptional - what makes it intriguing is its sheer wealth of diversity. The bonus CD is by Ramzi Aburedwan.