Review by Muyiwa Osinuga

Hekaya, the latest album by Tarek Sawires, is a mesmerizing blend of traditional Arabic music and contemporary sounds. The album features a range of instruments including the oud, qanun, and ney, as well as electronic beats and synthesizers. The result is a rich and layered sound that transports the listener to a different world.

Sawires' compositions tell stories, or "hekayas" in Arabic, through music. Each track is a journey, taking the listener through different moods and emotions. The album opens with "Alf Leila Wa Leila," a hauntingly beautiful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Other standout tracks include "Zaman," with its pulsing beat and soaring melodies, and "Ya Salam," a lively and upbeat track that showcases Sawires' skill on the oud.

The album also features collaborations with other musicians, including vocalist Nouran AbuTaleb on "Alf Leila Wa Leila" and "Ya Salam," and percussionist Hany Bedair on "Zaman." These collaborations add depth and texture to the already rich sound of the album.

Summary by Muyiwa Osinuga

Hekaya is a stunning work of art that showcases Sawires' talent as a composer and musician. It is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates Arabic music or is looking for something new and different.