Les Ensembles de musique « El Ferda » et « Imerhane » enchantent le public algérois
ALGER: On Monday evening, the musical ensembles "El Ferda" and "Imerhane" captivated a receptive audience at the Boualem-Bessaih Opera House in Algiers. The event, organized by the Ministry of Culture and Arts as part of its "special-Ramadhan" cultural program, showcased the rich and diverse musical heritage of Algeria, particularly from the regions of Béchar and Tamanrasset.
The atmosphere was vibrant, as the audience was transported through El Ferda’s performance—an hour-long journey into the Melhoun genre from Kenadsa, Béchar. Under the leadership of Larbi Bestam, commanding both the lute and vocals, the seven-member ensemble featured musicians like the Bouhazma brothers, El Hadj Guenibri, and percussionists Touhami and Abd-Rabbi. They delivered a repertoire comprising soulful Q’çid, Chaâbi, and M’dih which has earned them acclaim over the decades.
The audience quickly immersed themselves in the music, relishing popular pieces such as "El Kawtar," "Krim El Kourama," "Kif iwassi," "Salamou," and the well-loved "Ben Bouziane." Following the performance, Bestam expressed his joy in returning to Alger and performing for such an enthusiastic crowd. Founded in 1992, El Ferda has released one self-titled album and several recordings from the National Office of Copyright and Neighboring Rights (ONDA). The ensemble continues to expand the Melhoun tradition, seeking new texts and pieces to rejuvenate and promote the region’s unique cultural heritage, highlighted by its poetic, melodic, and rhythmic characteristics.
Following the rousing reception for El Ferda, the "Imerhane" ensemble took the stage, led by a masterful Seddam on electric guitar and vocals. The group included Hichem Bouhas switching between electro-acoustic guitar and drums, Habib Allah Akhamoukh on calabash, Tahar Khaldi on bass, and Abdelkader Ourzik providing guitar accompaniment. They introduced the audience to "Assoufi," a style from Tamanrasset, with pieces like "Dounya," "Tiguettane," "Assouf," "Achenkadh," "Iresligh," "Touchal," "Imerhane," "Tinaghit," "Tagh’dert," and "Soumagh." Each number evoked nostalgia and bliss, drawing the audience into a euphoric atmosphere.
Having evolved from the renowned group "Tinariwen," Imerhane was formed in 2006 by bassist Eyadou, who mentored many budding musicians in Tamanrasset, including Seddam. With three albums to their name—"Imerhane" (2006), "Timit" (2018), and "Abougui" (2021)—the group has toured extensively, visiting major cities worldwide. Their strong interaction with the audience, who joyfully sang along, ensured that both ensembles achieved their goal of providing delight and entertainment.
The "special-Ramadhan" program at the Algiers Opera continues, featuring a variety of artistic performances dedicated to different genres of Algerian music, celebrating the country’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Overall, the evening was a celebration of Algeria’s musical heritage, showcasing the talent of local ensembles as they brought traditional sounds to life, blending them with modern influences and fostering a sense of community and cultural pride among the audience. The event not only highlighted the richness of Algerian music but also served as a platform for these talented musicians to share their art, ensuring the preservation and evolution of their cultural heritage.
