This CD documents an epochal 1998 performance by three Algerian singer-composers. Khaled is the undisputed king of rai, a rebellious, Western-influenced style spawned in the port city of Oran. As he was in constant danger from outraged Muslim fundamentalists, he fled to Paris. Later on, Rachid Taha formed a rock band called Carte de Sejour (Green Card), which addressed the concerns of downtrodden immigrant populations in France. Last but not least, the talented newcomer Faudel is often referred to as Khaled"s heir apparent. The 13 tracks include such monster hits as "Didi," "N"ssi N"ssi," and "Chebba," plus "Aicha"--a bit of ear candy from Jean-Jacques Goldman--and the French pop chestnut "Comme le Habitude." This is easily one of the best-engineered live recordings ever made, capturing the empathy shared by the singers and a wildly enthusiastic audience while providing an indelible sense of time and place. --Christina Roden