Album Spotlight | Maurice Louca - Benhayyi Al-Baghbaghan (Remix)

Maurice Louca’s groundbreaking album ‘Benhayyi Al-Baghbaghan’ (‘Salute the Parrot’) has been reimagined a decade after its original release with a new remix album, bringing fresh interpretations to one of the most influential records in contemporary Arab music.

The remix compilation features seven tracks reworked by some of the region’s most forward-thinking artists, including Deena Abdelwahed, Julmud, El Waili, Noise Dive, El Kontessa, 3Phaz and 3xOJ. Each artist infuses their own sonic identity into Louca’s original compositions, pushing the boundaries of Egyptian shaabi and electronic experimentation.

First released in 2014, ‘Benhayyi Al-Baghbaghan’ was a defining record that blurred the lines between traditional shaabi music and avant-garde electronic production, cementing Louca’s reputation as a pioneer in the scene. In our recent interview with him at the remix album’s launch party, he reflected on the creative process behind the original album, how it has aged over the past decade, and the lasting impact it has had on the region’s music landscape. Louca also shared his thoughts on the reinterpretations of his work by the remix artists - including El Waili, 3Phaz, Maryam Saleh, and El Kontessa - and what the project means to him personally.

Beyond Louca’s perspective, we also spoke with the contributing artists about the significance of ‘Benhayyi Al-Baghbaghan’, its influence on their own musical journeys, and how they approached reworking such a seminal record. Their insights offer a deeper understanding of the album’s legacy and its continued resonance in today’s experimental music scene.

Watch the full interview: