Bennesbeh Labokra... Chou? — Ziad Rahbani

Staged and recorded in 1978 during the early years of the Lebanese Civil War at the Théâtre de l'Orphelinat in Beirut, Bennesbeh Labokra... Chou? remains one of the most culturally significant works of modern Middle Eastern theater. Written, composed, and arranged by a 21-year-old Ziad Rahbani, the play used dark humor and brilliant musical vignettes to capture the anxieties, economic struggles, and surreal daily life of ordinary citizens caught in civil conflict.

The soundtrack showcases Rahbani’s peerless gift for fusing traditional Levantine folk melodies with American jazz-funk, bossa nova rhythms, and lush string arrangements. Sung with raw soul and theatrical charisma by Joseph Sacre, the album introduced the original, faster version of the legendary anthem "Al Bosta" (later recorded by Ziad's mother, Fairuz, on her iconic 1979 album Wahdon), alongside timeless favorites like "Ismaa Ya Rida" and "Aamel Eih." Interspersed with moody instrumental jazz themes and cinematic variations, the record is an essential triumph of resilient artistry.

Pressing Details & Visuals

• Official Wewantsounds Archival Reissue: Officially licensed in direct collaboration with the Rahbani family estate and the Zida label catalog.

• Parisian Analog Remastering: Sourced and specially remastered for vinyl by Colorsound Studio in Paris, delivering exceptional warmth, punchy acoustic basslines, and crisp separation on Joseph Sacre's vocals.

• Original Dual-Sleeve Artwork: Features an authentic reproduction of the original 1978 sleeve design, complete with vintage English and Arabic typography.

• Illustrated Insert Included: Comes with a dedicated 2-page insert featuring rare archival stage photography and extensive bilingual liner notes detailing the play's historic run in Beirut.

Collector's Note: Original 1978 Lebanese vinyl copies of Bennesbeh Labokra... Chou? are virtually impossible to find in clean condition due to the small quantities pressed during the war. This reissue is especially prized because it includes both the vocal cuts and Rahbani's intricate instrumental "Variations," which serve as a foundational blueprint for modern Arab jazz-funk fusion.

Tracklist

• Side A: Moukaoualat Masrahieh | Introduction 1 | Al Bosta | Variation 1 | Variation 2 | Ismaa Ya Rida | Variation 3

• Side B: Variation 4 | Aamel Eih | Variation 5 | Bennesbeh Labokra Chou? (Theme) | Finale

Technical Specifications