In just the first three months of 2024, the musical landscape has already been enriched with a plethora of fire albums and bonafide bangers emanating from the region. Among the shining stars, BTLTNM’s magnum opus, SULTAN, marks the triumphant return of rap maestros Shabjdeed and Al Nather after a five-year hiatus. With this album, the duo unveils their new alter ego, building upon their seminal work Sindibad. Seamlessly blending nostalgic samples from a Syrian children’s TV show with elements of drill and trap, the new project is a testament to their genius, once again solidifying the duo as being some of the most prominent pioneers of rap in the region.
Meanwhile, Sudanese wordsmith Soulja makes a personal debut with Deja Vu, a 14-track introspective journey delving into his upbringing, challenges, and aspirations, questioning the very essence of destiny. Deira, the latest offering from Saint Levant and MC Abdul, resonates as a poignant tribute to Palestine, stirring the soul with its evocative melodies and impassioned verses.
The emergence of a fresh wave of Egyptian rap brings forth experimental sounds, exemplified by Wagdy Yachter and Logical Da9ud’s LP Al Tab3 Ghallab, which effortlessly navigates between jazz influences and lo-fi aesthetics, pushing the boundaries of sonic exploration.
In a collaborative effort spanning across Arab borders, Egyptian-Palestinian rapper Ma-Beyn, Lebanese lyricist Sabine Salamé, and Palestinian producer SHTLF unite in the EP N7S. With each track titled with three characters, the project symbolizes unity among artists hailing from Egypt, Lebanon, and Palestine. Their dynamic synergy and thought-provoking lyrics shine a light on Western colonialism and the ongoing struggles in Gaza, urging for Arab solidarity in the face of adversity.
Elyanna’s ethereal single El Sham pays homage to Levantine heritage, while Abo El Anwar’s poignant Mashakel Kteera and Xander Ghost’s haunting Asetou will have you continuously running them back. Rounding out the list is Young Gaby’s latest EP, Cloud 9, a goth-trap odyssey wrapped up in a silky, smooth package.
As we continue to explore the myriad sounds emanating from the region, one thing becomes abundantly clear: 2024 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for music in the region, with artists emboldened to cut their own paths through it all. Below, all the records and songs we have on rotation– that you will too.
