I’ve heard before about Kayan but this was the first time I ever listen to their work and also, probably the first time I listen to an Arab Grunge Band. As a Grunge fan, it was a nail it or die kind of situation for me. Well, they nailed it!
Al Dajjal was recorded all instruments at a time and it’s quite noticeable. It sounds like a live album at most times and you get those live performances vibes.
The first song off the album is the title track. The first thing you notice is the vocals of Sherif El Shazly that you can almost miss the great guitar work. They- the vocals- are remarkable, powerful and don’t lack any energy. Another remarkable instrument is by the talented drummer Adham Nassef. The instrumental part in the song showcases a great talent and chemistry between Adham and Mohamed Samir.
Next couple of tracks are sang in the common slang. Vocally, you can hear the Kurt Cobain and Layne Staley influences. The drums are always catching my ears. The Bass and Guitar work specifically in ‘Molid Sidy El-Autobees’ is great too although the guitar melody is scarily familiar. But putting that aside, the song is pretty good and so energetic you’ll find yourself involuntarily head-banging!
‘Aslamt Wajhy’ is a whole lot different atmosphere; the first time I hear an Arabic religious Rock song. The ambient atmosphere fits perfectly with the song theme while still keeping it as a Rock song. The vocals are breath-taking,
the whole song is beautiful. ‘Ard El-Balabel’ (Land Of Nightingales) sounds like a Classic Rock song more than a Grunge song, another energetic song with a great instrumental part and a great vocal performance. I could easily name it my favorite song on the album.
I loved Al-Dajjal, it’s easy to tell. From the first minute til’ the last you can tell that you’re listening to professional musicians. There’s few to none that I would complain about. I always had a problem with Arabic bands’ vocalists singing in a Western accent or style, would personally prefer if they sing in an Arabic accent as long as they’re already singing in Arabic. That would be my only complaint. It’s not a complaint but I think I prefer the songs sang in standard Arabic than the ones in the common slang both vocally and lyrically. But using both dialects gave the album diversity.
Written by: Noura M.Moussa
Edited by: NJ Bakr
