Randomly going through his samples on a chill afternoon, Cairo-based producer and musician, Kubbara, came across a snippet from a conversation with a close friend containing two words: “Egyptian Culture.” The producer chose to use the sample as a base for his improvisation on a modular synthesiser - as you do. 

Kubbara uses the synthesiser to create a variety of modulations, control them in real time, experiment with rhythmic and tonal changes and compose the sequences of the beats. The producer then uses Ableton to explore sharp glitches to complete the sound. The piece maintains aggressive beats throughout, with a steadily evolving textured rhythmic build-up that eventually – and cyclically – ends where it started with the sample fade-out.

The piece was recorded in one take, and the producer timed himself during the process to ensure a cohesive form and an elevated awareness of structure. 

Stay tuned for Kubbara’s debut album, due for release soon. 

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Photo & Video: Ahmed Kubbara/Amanda Haredy