Toni Geitani's latest release, Wahj, has solidified his position as a key player in the growing world of Arabic electronic experimentalism. The Beirut-born composer, who also works as a visual artist and sound designer, brings his unique blend of melodic sensibilities and sonic innovation to this sophomore album.
Wahj is an ambitious work that seamlessly blends traditional Arabic musical elements with modern electronic production techniques. Geitani's use of soaring layali vocalisations, reverb-laden drums, and analogue synths creates a cinematic soundscapes that draw listeners in and refuse to let go. From the opening track Hal, which sets a plaintive tone with a yearning cello solo, to the thundering drums and doomy synths of Ya Sah, Geitani's mastery of mood and atmosphere is on full display.
One of the standout aspects of Wahj is its ability to balance unease and tension with moments of beauty and tranquility. Tracks like Ruwaydan Ruwaydan, which tempers a pleasant jazz swing groove with an unexpected beat-switch and piercing ney flute line, demonstrate Geitani's skill at crafting musical narratives that keep listeners engaged. Meanwhile, closing track Madda Mudadda builds from calming ambience into a crushing chaos of static and whispered melody, cementing the album's reputation as a sonic odyssey.
Geitani's influence can be heard in producers such as Burial, whose shadowy nocturnal hiss has been cited as an inspiration by the composer. His dabke-sampling debut album Al Roujoou Ilal Qamar also demonstrated his willingness to experiment and push boundaries. On Wahj, Geitani takes this approach a step further, incorporating elements of industrial techno and Hans Zimmer-style melodrama into his sonic palette.
Wahj is an essential listen for fans of Arabic electronic experimentalism and anyone looking to expand their musical horizons. With its innovative production techniques, soaring melodies, and cinematic soundscapes, it's an album that will leave listeners breathless and eager for more.
Wahj is an ambitious work that seamlessly blends traditional Arabic musical elements with modern electronic production techniques. Geitani's use of soaring layali vocalisations, reverb-laden drums, and analogue synths creates a cinematic soundscapes that draw listeners in and refuse to let go. From the opening track Hal, which sets a plaintive tone with a yearning cello solo, to the thundering drums and doomy synths of Ya Sah, Geitani's mastery of mood and atmosphere is on full display.
One of the standout aspects of Wahj is its ability to balance unease and tension with moments of beauty and tranquility. Tracks like Ruwaydan Ruwaydan, which tempers a pleasant jazz swing groove with an unexpected beat-switch and piercing ney flute line, demonstrate Geitani's skill at crafting musical narratives that keep listeners engaged. Meanwhile, closing track Madda Mudadda builds from calming ambience into a crushing chaos of static and whispered melody, cementing the album's reputation as a sonic odyssey.
Geitani's influence can be heard in producers such as Burial, whose shadowy nocturnal hiss has been cited as an inspiration by the composer. His dabke-sampling debut album Al Roujoou Ilal Qamar also demonstrated his willingness to experiment and push boundaries. On Wahj, Geitani takes this approach a step further, incorporating elements of industrial techno and Hans Zimmer-style melodrama into his sonic palette.
Wahj is an essential listen for fans of Arabic electronic experimentalism and anyone looking to expand their musical horizons. With its innovative production techniques, soaring melodies, and cinematic soundscapes, it's an album that will leave listeners breathless and eager for more.