Oumniya (my wish) marks the great comeback of Souad Massi, the Algerian chaâbi-folk icon. This sixth album is decidedly modern, with themes anchored in current events. Algeria, politics, love, freedom and emancipation are all topics that feed this sensitive artist. Massi makes folk music, but she does so with an Algerian mandole, the main instrument of châabi and Kabyle music. A light, melodic folk, balanced with pop, as found in Oumniya, Massi's newest album since Raoui (2001).

Souad Massi's melodies-at once exotic and familiar-are influenced by shaabi music, French chanson, flamenco, 1960s American folk, and a variety of African musical traditions. Accessible and engaging, her delicate guitar playing is the perfect accompaniment to her beautiful lyric. "Mesk Elil" the highly anticipated 3rd album follows on from 2004's "Deb".