Nadah El Shazly

2024 was a pretty busy year for El Shazly — she published two full-length albums. First, the original motion picture soundtrack of Les damnés ne pleurent pas, a highly praised movie directed by British-Moroccan Fyzal Boulifa. After that, the LP Pollution Opera, made in collaboration with Elvin Brandhi, saw the light. But if you thought Nadah would rest after those feats, think again (after all, the film score had been done a couple of years ago). Because she’s back again with a new album to expand her solo project, titled Laini Tani, which marks her debut on One Little Independent Records.

As said, the first seconds of Ghorzetein, Nadah’s new single, seem to lure you into another world. It’s starts smoothly, but quickly, heavy beats take you by surprise and get you grooving. The mix between the artist’s bewitching voice and the rough, experimental background creates a surprising juxtaposition that has you craving for more. Known for her out-of-the-box approach to music-making, combining traditional Arab sounds (Nandah is originally from Egypt even if she’s currently based in Montreal, Canada) with more contemporary genres.

Directed by Selim ElSadek, the accompanying music video stands out for its simplicity yet raw emotion. Nadah’s movements are visceral, somewhat ritualistic, and commands the room with her outstanding stage presence — from subtle movements to head-banging, Nadah proves that she’s an all-encompassing performer.