Cover Photo by Omar Sha3
Palestinian rapper Shabjdeed and Palestinian producer Al Nather have just dropped their new single, ‘Fi Swat’, giving us an early listen to their evolved sounds in anticipation of their forthcoming album ‘Al Sultan’.
Shabjdeed surged into the Arabic hip-hop scene in 2019 with his acclaimed debut album ‘Sindibad Al Ward’, which was exclusively produced by Al Nather. Released through the Ramallah independent label ‘BLTNM’ which the duo co-founded, the album cemented Shabjdeed and Al Nather as one of the more dynamic rapper/producer duos that have recently emerged in the region, thanks to Al Nather’s distinctive production sound which has been harmoniously entwined with Shabjdeed’s charismatic delivery, enigmatic bars and eclectic style.
The duo’s post-album journey featured a series of releases including their standout track ‘Amrikkka’ which marked their biggest single to date. Shabjdeed went on to forge the Palestinian rap supergroup ‘R3D’ alongside Al Nather, Daboor and Ramadan. Their collective venture resulted in a three-track EP that showcased Al Nather’s sonic evolution into more experimental territories, marked by sample-based production and heavier sonic elements.
On ‘Fi Swat’, the music takes on a darker approach, shifting from their established sound to a more gloomy and ominous vibes. Shabjdeed comes in with his enigmatic persona on the verses and melodically flows on the refrain, while Al Nather incorporates these bedouin percussions in the mix which adds an authentic layer to the track.
