Jowan Safadi's lyrics can be contentious – subtly toned with his introspections on a wide range of issues making him one of the most influential contemporary artists in the Arabic scene. In his latest single 'Al Jareema', released in April this year, Jowan’s low, commanding voice belies a darkly evocative lyricism creating a song that is both unsettling and thrilling.
'Al Jareema' (The Crime) lauds as a song with a powerful and direct political message—as well as hidden—about the unfortunate and perilous reality of Palestinians in the occupied territories (Israel) since 1948. Facing ethnic cleansing carried out by crime organizations backed by racist state agenda to scare the indigenous people. The long nights of experimentation to perfect the lyrics—the layers of rhymes and word-play—are evident. This often gives a surprisingly tense quality to songs that already hang heavy with spectacle, something he plays around with.
'Al Jareema' (The Crime) lauds as a song with a powerful and direct political message
The unique sound design flouts the blueprint of any specific genre. Instead, it uses hip hop to throw in Jowan's flow of political poetry in Arabic, flirting with punk rock motives that provide "cool" energy. A brace of subtle instrumental interludes suggests avant-garde ambitions as haunting as Jowan's vocals. Arabic folkloric beats, sounds and Palestinian folk singing style emanate naturally in the catchy chorus: "Nation, oh nation like all nations, hit by hit to keep it beaten, love one another, clear the hearts, or clear one another (kill) as the enemies' desire". An unpretentious attempt at a patriotic sense of enlightenment.
