This is one of the most irresistible of Putumayo's anthologies, and certainly the most danceable of the Middle Eastern collections. "North African Groove" focuses on the intersection between Arab and Sub-Saharan, with an anchor firmly placed in Algeria. The Algerians are masters of fusion and invention, which explains the presence of a group as incongruous as Jomed, with their Arabic drumming and intonation, mixing with Cuban trumpets and chorus. It's a weird, magical juxtaposition. "North African Groove" wouldn't be complete without contributions from Khaled, the so-called king of rai, and Cheb Mami, his prince, but there's much more here: A rollicking "Dis Moi Porquoi" by Tunisia's Amina, one of the most prominent female artists in the Middle East, and her compatriot, Rhany, offering a yummy "Un Mot de Toi," recorded in the same studios as Buena Vista Social Club. There's not a cut here that doesn't rock.

-Achy Obejas