Kader Japonais has brought earthy raï tales from his native Algiers to massive cosmopolitan gatherings across North Africa and Europe. Carrying the torch for raï greats of the past, he wraps his raspy-voiced verses around whirling percussion, horn blasts and all-male choruses—a glorious invitation to celebration. In addition to mixing broad Maghrebi folk and pop influences, the artist is a master balladeer. Albums like 2018’s Dream feature jubilant summer rhythms alongside self-penned laments that let his soul-baring vocals shine through.