Artist: Arkan Album: Salam

Year: 2011
Duration: 51:34

An Honest Critique of Arkan's Album, Salam

Arkan's Salam is an intriguing fusion of metal and Middle Eastern sounds that demands attention. For those who are unfamiliar with the artist, Arkan is a French band formed in 2005 that blends Middle Eastern music with metal. Their third album, Salam, was released in 2019 and features 11 tracks, which I will now critique.
The first track on the album, Alam, sets the tone with a haunting Middle Eastern melody that transitions into a thunderous metal riff. The vocalist, Manuel Munoz, sings in Arabic, which fits perfectly into the overall theme of the album. The second track, Nour, is one of the most notable on the album, with a more upbeat melody and catchy chorus. It showcases the band's talent for melodic hooks and draws the listener in.
Moving onto the title track, Salam, the intro is a standout feature. The lead guitar and sitar work together effortlessly, creating a beautiful Middle Eastern-inspired melody that sets the tone for the album. The chorus is powerful with Munoz's emotionally charged vocals resonating with listeners. However, the track could have been shorter as the repetition of the chorus got a bit too much towards the end.
Kyrie is another noteworthy song on the album, with a catchy riff that hooks listeners in from the start. The song progresses rapidly, showcasing the band's skill at changing the pace while keeping the momentum going. Amen demonstrates the versatility of the band, with a slow, melancholic intro that builds up to a gripping metal melody that packs a punch.
In terms of the most innovative parts of the album, the use of the sitar and the Arabic vocals are a standout feature. They blend perfectly with the heavy metal sounds, creating a unique listening experience. The instrumental Matraya also demonstrates the band's talent at creating a mood with music alone, with an atmospheric tone and a slower pace that adds contrast to the rest of the album.
Overall, Arkan's Salam is a solid addition to the band's discography, showcasing their unique blend of metal and Middle Eastern sounds. The album has its highlights, including Nour, Kyrie, and Amen. However, some songs could have been shorter, and the repetition of the same elements in some tracks felt excessive. Nevertheless, the album does a brilliant job of captivating listeners with its captivating melodies and emotionally charged vocals. If you're into Middle Eastern-inspired metal, Salam is a must-hear for you.