London-based artist Rakim Under, known for their releases on M.A.D Records and its Edit Series, steps onto Karnak On Acid’s roster with “Leek Fel Masry?”, the third release from the burgeoning label. This EP is a nuanced exploration of dance music’s intersection with Middle Eastern sonic motifs, neon-soaked new wave, and an undercurrent of social critique. Across four tracks, Rakim Under crafts a uniquely “Egyptomaniacal” journey, one that is both contemplative and primed for the dancefloor.
The opener, “Cairo Nights”, eases listeners into the EP with a breezy, unhurried charm. Hazy vocals, delivered with the languor of a sun-soaked drifter, interplay with playful 8-bit melodies. The rhythm section—anchored by phase-swirled percussion—adds a subtle complexity, creating a hypnotic groove that invites repeated listens. It’s a track as vibrant as a bustling Cairo street, capturing the essence of nocturnal adventures while retaining an enigmatic allure.
Shifting the mood, “Shtaye Dub” offers a more restrained yet electrifying experience. The track conjures the imagery of an oasis glimpsed amidst towering pylons, with its electrolytic synth textures and dub-inspired basslines. It is a study in contrasts—an aural mirage where sparse instrumentation morphs into something profound. This track epitomizes Rakim Under’s ability to evoke vivid landscapes through sound, creating a sense of movement and stillness simultaneously.
The titular track, “Leek Fel Masry?”, brings vocalist Mimo into the fold to question and dissect the orientalist tropes often embedded in dance music. The fusion of probing lyrics with an intricate sonic palette—marked by sinuous rhythms and Eastern-tinged melodies—is both provocative and deeply engaging. It’s a rare moment where commentary and club sensibilities coalesce without sacrificing impact or groove, making it the emotional and thematic centerpiece of the EP.
Closing the EP, “Conferencia De Jungla” ventures into chugging, psychedelic territory. Wordless yet brimming with intent, the track employs vocal samples discussing human rights over a lush, layered soundscape. The interplay of organic textures and steady, propulsive beats creates a meditative climax, leaving listeners with much to ponder as the record draws to a close. It’s a fitting end to an EP that balances introspection with the kinetic energy of dance music.
With “Leek Fel Masry?“, Rakim Under delivers a work that is as thoughtful as it is rhythmically engaging. By weaving Middle Eastern influences with electronic elements, the EP achieves a rare synthesis of cultural homage and forward-thinking artistry. It stands as a testament to Karnak On Acid’s curatorial vision and Rakim Under’s deft hand as a producer. For those seeking dance music that transcends the ephemeral, this is a release worth savoring.
Words by Holger Breuer
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