In a groundbreaking move, SceneNoise, the esteemed online media platform that has been the voice of the Middle East's independent music landscape for over a decade, has recently expanded its horizons by venturing into the world of record labels with the birth of NoiseRecords.
This new venture kicks off with a bang as NoiseRecords presents its debut release, 'Manshaa,' a 13-track compilation featuring a diverse array of artists from the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. Beyond merely introducing a fresh wave of music, 'Manshaa' stands out for its altruistic mission, with all proceeds from the album being donated to the Palestine Red Crescent Society.
The compilation album aptly embodies the eclectic sounds that SceneNoise has championed over the years, marking a significant milestone in the platform's commitment to promoting diverse music from the region. 'Manshaa' serves as a sonic journey, reflecting the rich tapestry of sounds emanating from the MENA region.
Notable tracks from the compilation include Jordanian Big Murk's dynamic Arabic Garage piece '7aggo Masaree,' Emirati singer Abri's soulful falsetto in 'The Edge,' and Lebanese Gharam Electric's Arab-futuro pop gem 'Mozza.' The album is a melting pot of genres, featuring everything from post-club heavy metal by Kuwaiti producer Goldplates to the pixelated jazz exploration of Tunisian producer Ratchopper.
NoiseRecords is not only about auditory experiences but also visual aesthetics. The album cover, crafted in collaboration with the Egyptian-German design house NTSAL, incorporates custom calligraphy, geographical stamps, and design elements inspired by the region's architecture and textiles. Each artist is uniquely represented by a 3D model, adorned with materials reflecting the diverse soundscape of the album.
In celebration of the label's inception and the release of 'Manshaa,' NoiseRecords has partnered with the Egyptian streetwear brand Brown Toast to unveil an exclusive apparel line. This collection pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of the Arab world, featuring custom stamps representing different countries in the MENA region.
What sets this streetwear line apart is its interactive experience. Wearers can scan the NoiseRecords globe icon on the sweatshirt, choose a track from the album, and witness a special Augmented Reality (AR) animation right on their garment. Moreover, those donning the sweatshirt will enjoy exclusive access to future music releases and content by utilizing the same scanning process, including digital memberships with upcoming perks from NoiseRecords.
In essence, 'Manshaa' and the accompanying streetwear collection mark the beginning of a promising era for NoiseRecords, reinforcing SceneNoise's commitment to fostering the growth and recognition of independent music in the MENA region.
