Egyptian Nubian oud player Hamza El Din came to prominence in the folk world of the early 1960s, his music sounding positively otherworldly as he sang in his native Nubian language. He recorded for the Vanguard label, who released his groundbreaking second album, 1965s Al Oud, which has now received a vinyl reissue from Real Gone Music. Even after decades of world music, Al Oud still sounds unique, a slice of a world unknown to most listeners. One of the highlights is “Call For Unity,” a plaintively sung number that speaks volumes. You might not understand the language, but it’s impossible to not feel the importance of the message.

Purchase Hamza El Din Al Oud: Real Gone Music