Album Review: حكم الهوى by نور مهنا
If you’re into music that feels like a warm hug from the Middle East, then نور مهنا’s حكم الهوى is worth a spin. Released back in 2008 under Rotana, this album falls into the Folk, World, & Country vibe, and honestly? It’s got soul. Like, real soul. You can tell it’s coming straight from the heart, no filters.
The title track, حكم الهوى, hits hard right out of the gate. It’s one of those songs where you just stop whatever you’re doing and listen. The melody is hauntingly beautiful, with نور’s voice carrying this mix of longing and strength. I think what makes it stick in my head is how raw it feels—like she’s telling you her story without holding anything back. Plus, the instrumentation has this earthy vibe that just pulls you in. You don’t even need to understand every word to feel it.
Another standout for me is مين علمك. This one sneaks up on you. At first, it seems simple, but then the lyrics start sinking in. It’s basically asking “Who taught you?”—and not in a sweet way either. There’s an edge to it, almost like a challenge wrapped in melody. I remember humming this after just one listen because the chorus hooks you so well. It’s catchy but still deep, which is a combo that doesn’t happen often.
Tracks like سعيد القلب and مر الفراق round things out nicely too. They keep the emotional tone going without feeling repetitive. But let’s be real, the whole album isn’t perfect. Some parts drag a bit, and there are moments where you wish she’d pushed the sound further. Still, when it works, it REALLY works.
What surprises me most about حكم الهوى is how timeless it feels. Even though it came out in 2008, it doesn’t sound dated at all. Maybe it’s because folk-inspired stuff always ages well, or maybe it’s just نور knowing exactly what she’s doing. Either way, it’s kinda wild how an album from over a decade ago still resonates today.
Final thought? Listening to this album feels like flipping through someone’s old photo album—you get little glimpses of their life, love, and struggles. And honestly, isn’t that what music’s supposed to do? Oh, and here’s a random kicker: I swear امرک عجيب sounds better late at night. Try it—you’ll see what I mean.
