Toni Geitani's latest album Wahj ("radiance" in Arabic) embodies the rising tide of Arabic electronic experimentalism, marrying the traditional maqam melodies with granular electronica and metallic rhythms. The Beirut-born Amsterdam-based composer brings his visual artistry to bear on sound design, drawing from influences like Burial and cinematic scores.
The 12-track album oscillates between tranquil moments, such as opener Hal's cello solo and Nia Ralinova's meandering vocals over a slow synthesizer pulse, and sonic maelstroms. The latter half of the record bursts with thundering drums, doomy synths, and industrial techno distortions in tracks like Ya Sah and Fawqa al Ghaym. While some songs veer into Hans Zimmer-inspired melodrama, Geitani deftly maintains a handle on his world-building.
Throughout Wahj, Geitani expertly tempers unease with unexpected twists, such as the jazz swing groove of Ruwaydan Ruwaydan's beat-switch and piercing ney flute line. The closing track Madda Mudadda culminates in crushing chaos of static and whispered melody, showcasing his mastery over dark tension.
Toni Geitani's album Wahj embodies a state of sonic unease, revealing beauty amidst ruin. As a master sound designer and visual artist, he weaves an intricate world that challenges listeners to find meaning in its turbulent landscape.
The 12-track album oscillates between tranquil moments, such as opener Hal's cello solo and Nia Ralinova's meandering vocals over a slow synthesizer pulse, and sonic maelstroms. The latter half of the record bursts with thundering drums, doomy synths, and industrial techno distortions in tracks like Ya Sah and Fawqa al Ghaym. While some songs veer into Hans Zimmer-inspired melodrama, Geitani deftly maintains a handle on his world-building.
Throughout Wahj, Geitani expertly tempers unease with unexpected twists, such as the jazz swing groove of Ruwaydan Ruwaydan's beat-switch and piercing ney flute line. The closing track Madda Mudadda culminates in crushing chaos of static and whispered melody, showcasing his mastery over dark tension.
Toni Geitani's album Wahj embodies a state of sonic unease, revealing beauty amidst ruin. As a master sound designer and visual artist, he weaves an intricate world that challenges listeners to find meaning in its turbulent landscape.
I mean, who would've thought to blend traditional Arabic melodies with all this granular electronica and industrial techno? It's like he's transported me to a world of cinematic soundscapes 
. And that visual artistry of his is just wow! Reminds me of old-school video game soundtracks 
. I'm totally hooked on tracks like "Ya Sah" - the way it goes from all calm to total sonic chaos is mind-blowing 
. The guy's got some serious skills, and it's awesome to see Arabic electronic experimentalism on the rise! 
. What I love most about Wahj is that it's not just about the music itself, but about creating this whole world and letting you, the listener, interpret what you hear 
. It's like he's saying, "Hey, come in, and see where this sonic unease takes you"... and I'm totally here for it 
!
! The way he blends traditional Arabic melodies with electronic beats and industrial sounds is so unique and captivating. It's like, his music takes you on this wild ride of emotions - it's all these dark and intense moments, but then you get these beautiful calm moments that just lift your spirits. I love how he balances unease with unexpected twists - it keeps you on the edge of your seat! 
And the production quality is top-notch, like he’s a master sound designer or something... What I love most about this album is that it makes me think about what beauty is and what ruin looks like. It's all these conflicting emotions wrapped into one sonic experience 
.
! He's like a master of blending old with new, you know? The way he combines traditional maqam melodies with this crazy electronic stuff is pure genius 
. I mean, who wouldn't want to listen to a cello solo or a jazz swing groove amidst all that industrial techno chaos 
? And the visuals are straight fire too - it's like he's painting soundscapes or something 
. The whole album feels like this immersive experience that makes you feel all these emotions at once, you know? Like, there's beauty in the darkness and all that 
. Anyway, I'm totally vibing on Wahj right now 
!
), but overall it's like, totally captivating 
Toni Geitani's album Wahj is giving me life! The way he blends traditional maqam melodies with granular electronica is pure genius 
Hal's cello solo takes me away to another world! And the way he switches up the tempo and mood throughout the album is incredible. It's like going on this wild emotional rollercoaster 
This guy's been building a fanbase, but what if it's all part of some larger agenda to control our ears?! Not to mention that Arabic electronic experimentalism is on the rise - could this be a deliberate attempt to shape global music trends? And those visual art elements? Just a distraction from the true art of sonic manipulation... I'm onto you, Toni Geitani! 
I'm low-key obsessed with Toni Geitani's new album "Wahj"! 
And can we talk about the visual artistry? 
! The way he blends traditional maqam melodies with granular electronica is SO innovative 
. I mean what even is Madda Mudadda tho? Like, can someone explain that to me?! 