Local Talent Spotlight Meet Indie-Electronic Duo TAYAR

TAYAR drops bold indie-electronic debut album "Kol Shi Sar". The Arabic electronic/indie-pop scene has just witnessed a fresh and daring release with the debut album "Kol Shi Sar" by Tayar, a Jordanian duo that’s rapidly gaining attention. Released on July 5, 2024, the album marks a significant milestone for the band, which was formed in 2019 by singer-songwriter Ahmad Farah and music producer/filmmaker Bader Helalat. Known for their eclectic blend of electronic, rock, jazz, funk, and beyond, Tayar brings a unique sound that captivates and surprises.

Who is Tayar?

Tayar isn’t just another indie-pop band. Drawing from diverse musical backgrounds, the duo is redefining the boundaries of Arabic music. Their songs move seamlessly from soulful ballads to high-energy anthems, making their sound unpredictable yet incredibly infectious. Their musical inspirations span across genres, from the electronic beats of modern pop to the deep grooves of jazz and the raw energy of rock. This versatility is what sets Tayar apart, allowing them to craft a sonic world that appeals to a global audience while remaining distinctly Middle Eastern.

A Departure From the Norm: "Kol Shi Sar"

In a region where the music industry often revolves around singles, Tayar has taken a bold step by releasing a full-length album. As Bader Helalat explained, the market in the Middle East tends to favor quick, single releases. But with "Kol Shi Sar," Tayar wanted to push their creative boundaries and explore a more cohesive musical journey. The result is a record that feels expansive, with tracks that breathe and evolve naturally.

The album's title track, “Kol Shi Sar”, along with standout tracks like “Korhik” and “Ramani”, showcase the duo's signature sound. The music flows like a tide, carrying listeners through waves of emotion, with a cinematic quality that pulls you into their world. The album’s slower tempos allow the melodies to shine, giving room for each note and lyric to resonate deeply with the listener.

Crafting a Global Sound

What makes "Kol Shi Sar" truly remarkable is its global nature. Despite being rooted in Arabic music, the album features collaborations with musicians from around the world. For instance, Egu Giro contributed the baglama for the track "El Ain," adding a unique microtonal flavor from Central Asia and pre-Turkish Anatolia. Meanwhile, Palestinian drummer Jameel Matar and singer Haya Zaatry added their talents, further enriching the album's sound. The trumpet work by Ivan Buraschi, recorded in Argentina, adds a hazy, dreamlike atmosphere to the song "RML."

Tayar’s ability to merge these global influences into their music while staying true to their Middle Eastern roots is a testament to their skill as musicians and producers. It’s also a reflection of the universal language of music, one that transcends borders and cultures, making "Kol Shi Sar" accessible to listeners worldwide.

The Vision Behind the Music

According to Ahmad Farah, the creative process often begins with him writing lyrics and laying down the foundation of a song on acoustic guitar. From there, the duo collaborates, with ideas bouncing back and forth between them. They work separately on initial ideas but come together when it’s time to record, ensuring that each song fully captures the emotional depth they’re aiming for.

The album’s softer vocal style, inspired by artists like Chet Baker and Thom Yorke, invites listeners to lean in, drawing them into the intimate and often melancholic world of Tayar. This understated approach is part of the duo’s deliberate effort to create music that resonates on a deeper level, making the listener feel as if they are part of the emotional journey.

By blending instrumental interludes with their lyric-heavy tracks, Tayar has created an album that feels like a narrative. It’s not just a collection of songs but a journey, with each track acting as a chapter in a larger story. With its mix of electronic beats, jazzy undertones, and rock-inspired intensity, "Kol Shi Sar" is an album that will undoubtedly resonate with listeners across the globe. If you’re looking for music that pushes boundaries while staying true to its roots, Tayar is a band you need to listen to.