Mi'ma'amakim cover

Mi'ma'amakim

Idan Raichel · 2005

49 min · 13 tracks · folk music

A rich tapestry of global folk sounds woven with heartfelt lyrics and evocative melodies rooted in Israeli culture.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    ממעמקים — This track showcases Raichel's ability to blend introspective lyrics with lush instrumentation, encapsulating the emotional depth that defines the album.
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    שובי אל ביתי — With its haunting melody and poignant themes of longing and return, this song exemplifies the cross-cultural resonance that permeates Raichel's work.
  • →
    אם תחפצה — This track highlights Raichel's innovative use of traditional sounds mixed with modern elements, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws the listener in.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album blends global folk influences with Hebrew lyrics, showcasing a unique sound that resonates well within its genre.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the communal feel of the music.
  • The instrumentation varies widely across tracks, with the use of piano, percussion, and string instruments contributing to its rich texture.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • heartfelt melodies for reflection
  • evocative rhythms for connection
  • thoughtful listening during introspection
  • rich emotional landscapes unfold
  • warm sounds for communal gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy dance tracks
  • prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2005, Mi'ma'amakim is Idan Raichel's debut album, marking the beginning of his influential career. At this point, Raichel was still relatively unknown, but this album introduced his unique blend of diverse musical influences to a broader audience, establishing him as a significant figure in contemporary Israeli music.
Stylistic neighbors
Omer Adam· David Broza· Matisyahu

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 עלה נישא ברוח 2:48
  • 2 ביום השבת 3:33
  • 3 שובי אל ביתי 3:54
  • 4 יש בי עוד כוח 3:09
  • 5 ממעמקים 5:50
  • 6 אם תחפצה 3:59
  • 7 מילים יפות מאלה 4:46
  • 8 מכל האהבות 4:22
  • 9 אולי הפעם 2:41
  • 10 عزين (Azini) 4:27
  • 11 אין לי תירוצים 3:16
  • 12 Siyaishaya Ingoma 3:34
  • 13 האר את עיניו 2:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata