Tag: Ala Ghawas

Ala Ghawas’ Richly Dynamic “Mars” Evokes 80s Art Pop Stars and Modern Soul

AlaGhawas1_crop
Ala Ghawas, photo courtesy the artist

Rarely will we share a song by the same artist this close together but “Mars” is a very different flavor and sound from Bahrainian songwriter Ala Ghawas. It’s still rooted in a sort of fusion of folk, jazz and pop but “Mars” finds Ghawas processing his soulful voice and otherwise incorporating a broad range of vocal styles in a relatively short song. Musically it’s a bit like hearing something that bridges modern soul with 80s artsy pop like Talk Talk and Peter Gabriel. The fascinating changes, dynamics and dazzling array of instruments brought to bear in the songwriting but channeled into an accessible form speak to a talent that could make him a darling of American alternative radio, if he isn’t already, given half a chance.

alaghawas.com
open.spotify.com/artist/1nj0MYUA0NqzniJd4FvUQN

“Ember” From Bahraini Songwriter Ala Ghawas is a Masterpiece of Elegance and Restraint

AlaGhawas1_crop
Ala Ghawas, photo courtesy the artist

Ala Ghawas is a prolific and acclaimed songwriter in his home country of Bahrain. Rather than perhaps more traditional Bahraini music, Ghawas has garnered attention for his finely crafted indie folk. With his latest series of singles, the Ghawas has been exploring the use of dissonance and well-placed minor progressions in a style of music that tends to play it a little safer. “Ember,” reminiscent of Our Endless Numbered Days-period Iron & Wine. Ghawas’ use of minimalist elements to orchestrate an emotional musical figure is similarly sophisticated and his turns of phrase poetic and vivid. At first listen you might think it’s like some other chamber folk songs you’ve heard and it is in many ways but repeated listens reveal layers of composition that reward your attention with the details and emotional coloring. Listen below to “Ember” and more.