Looking for something different? How about an infusion of traditional Arabic vocal stylings with a modern beat! Try the platinum-selling group Alabina. This group brings together multiple styles of world music in spicy eclectic songs you can still dance to. Since the release of their self-titled debut album in 1996, their music has incorporated the sounds of French, Arabic, Middle Eastern, and Spanish Gypsy music. Their music is easy to listen to and presents a pleasant blend to world music that reminds me of good times with good friends at the Hookah bar.

The first time I heard Alabina I was still fresh to the hookah scene, and going to try out a hookah bar. When I walked in, the room was packed. All eyes were glued on a doorway at the back of the bar. Suddenly it began. A beautiful, wavering note came out over the speakers. Then a steady beat followed. My first thought was that Shakira and the Gypsy Kings had performed a song together, but that wasn’t the case. As I wondered who was playing, the room broke into applause as belly dancers made their enterance and started dancing to the rhythm.

Later I found out that Alabina is comprised of Ishtar, a female vocalist who can deliver beautiful vocals in five languages, and Los Ninos de Sara, four Spanish-speaking Gypsies who incorporate elements of flamenco, Gypsy, and Spanish music. Alabina has released five albums to date, the most recent being The Ultimate Club Remixes in 2002.

If you are looking for traditional Arabic music for your Hookah bar, this isn't it. If you are looking for a modern take on world music, look no further than Alabina.