Kazdoura * Habibi Funk 037: Markab CD

Formed in Toronto by Syrian vocalist Leen Hamo and Lebanese multi-instrumentalist John Abou Chacra, Kazdoura bring together two distinct musical backgrounds. Following the success of their debut album, Ghoyoum, they return with Markab, a record that blends Arabic musical traditions with a groove-driven, organic band sound shaped by psychedelic and Anatolian rock, indie, jazz, Afrobeat and Gnawa influences. Arabic maqamat, including Bayat, Rast, Nakriz, Hijaz and Kurd, sit at the heart of the album, carried by Hamo's vocals and Abou Chacra's guitar, saxophone and flute. Prominent basslines, live drums, analogue textures and hypnotic grooves drive the arrangements throughout. Markab, meaning "vehicle," emerges from a very different place than it's predecessor. While Ghoyoum was shaped by upheaval and uncertainty, the new album is firmly rooted in the present, reflecting a period of greater confidence, curiosity and joy. Across ten tracks, Kazdoura explore themes of homeland, love, social expectations, self-image, vulnerability and psychological struggle, alongside everyday pleasures, freedom and the possibility of moving forward.