In the current musical landscape, where indie and alternative music have seen a gradual decline, with fewer acts performing consistently, the indie scene is left wanting more. Many of the bands that pioneered the movement across the regional music scene in the early part of the last decade have either disbanded, relocated outside the region, or are no longer active. Bands like El Morabba3 (now based in Berlin) and Mashrou’ Leila (disbanded) are no longer part of the scene that they once helped sustain.
The remaining active bands in the region often struggle to introduce anything new, remaining within the confines of their earlier sound. Indie fans are left craving fresh experiences that embody the core aesthetics of the genre.
Jazeera 10, a five-piece rock band based in Berlin, has entered the scene earlier in 2024 and are now back with their latest EP, ’Dari El Hal’. The EP displays their raw energy and technical precision, offering a solid continuation of their debut EP ’Bahlami’, highlighting the band’s steady output while also demonstrating their varied approach to music.
In ’Dari El Hal’, Jazeera 10 creates a dreamlike soundscape across four tracks, blending ethereal instrumentation with immersive vocals. The EP is brought to life through the careful use of synthesizers and lush guitar lines that contribute to a chill-wave atmosphere.
The sound moves fluidly between genres, without committing fully to any single direction, from the neo-psychedelia elements on the opening track ’Dari El Hal’ to the more dream-pop influences on ‘Kil Issa’, while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout. While the instrumentation is stylistically consistent, the vocals fall short, often feeling bland and monotonous. However, the lyrics - focused on themes of identity, alienation and nostalgia - compensate for the vocal delivery, adding depth to the album.
‘Dari El Hal’ positions Jazeera 10 as a notable addition to the indie scene. Yet, their location outside the region underscores a persistent issue - the lack of a strong, vital indie scene operating within the region's borders.
