Mahdy Madness has been subtly invigorating the scene with releases that demand attention and thoughtful consumption. Far from being a prolific releaser, Mahdy unveiled an album in 2023 that showcased his potential. With a gritty persona shrouded in mystique, his debut revealed qualities that, if properly honed and intentionally directed, could make him the next superstar rapper. He possesses a sharp sense of rhyme, unpredictable flows, a distinctive tone, and, perhaps most importantly, the charisma to command attention.
However, Mahdy Madness doesn’t seem to be chasing stardom. He comes across as either too reserved for fame or intentionally shrouded in mystery. Yet his words speak volumes, revealing an artist with something meaningful to say. Mahdy's new release, MARKA, was teased with cryptic statements that defy the conventions of a typical press release. These enigmatic phrases could be interpreted as either shallow or deeply profound, but either way, they succeed in sparking curiosity and compelling listeners to dive into the album.
From the first playthrough, the opener, Location, unfolds as a submerged, atmospheric track with stretched-out vocals and ambient synth-scapes reminiscent of a Mike Dean solo record. While the lyrics are barely discernible, the track serves its purpose: setting the tone and hinting at the depth that awaits as the album progresses.
The album takes off with the title track, Marka. Here, shaabi-inspired drums lay the foundation before giving way to a predominantly electronic soundscape of minimal, compressed kick drums and understated synth melodies. This stripped-down backdrop allows Mahdy’s voice to take center stage.
Mahdy delivers a heart-pounding chorus and transitions fluidly through the verses, blending melodic sections with thrilling bars. His vocal performance is dynamic, marked by varied inflections and styles that bring depth and texture to the four-minute track. Amro Ali’s production is integral, keeping the instrumentation low-key yet captivating. While the track slightly overstays its welcome, it effectively sets the tone for the rest of the album.
Mahdy Madness truly finds his voice on MARKA, carving out a unique lane that sets him apart from his contemporaries. The influence of Mike Dean’s style of rap is evident throughout the record, but it never feels like mere imitation. Instead, it reflects a genuine appreciation for the sound. Take SYNC, for instance: the interplay between synths and guitars defines the track’s sonic landscape, beginning with a drumless opening minute where Mahdy’s rapping feels deliberate and declarative. His self-assured, introspective themes take center stage before the track erupts with booming 808 kick drums, concluding with a hard-edged boom-bap switch that channels his aggression.
MARKA is a fluid record, resisting adherence to a single formula while maintaining a cohesive flow. It reveals different facets of Mahdy’s artistry and offers glimpses into the sounds that inspire him. At times, he raps with authority and conviction; in other moments, such as on Kedba, he explores introspection and vulnerability. Across the album’s seven tracks, Mahdy moves confidently through diverse soundscapes, showcasing his adaptability and distinct character.
The album cements Mahdy Madness as a major player in the scene, underlining his vision, his finely tuned ear for production, and his remarkable technical abilities. While it marks a significant evolution from his debut, MARKA feels like just the beginning for Mahdy, leaving listeners eager to see what’s next.
