A sonic odyssey

Tunisian-American artist Emel Mathlouthi is back with a purpose with her groundbreaking new album, MRA, which translates to ‘woman’ in Arabic. 

MRA breaks the mould by being created entirely by women, challenging the male-dominated music industry.

Emel is no stranger to pushing boundaries and throughout her career, she has championed social change. Her early days fronting a metal band in Tunis foreshadowed her rebellious spirit.

MRA is a sonic odyssey, seamlessly blending genres while maintaining a powerful narrative. The opening track, Massive Will sets the tone with its thrilling African rhythms that morph into an electronic soundscape. This unexpected shift reflects the album’s multifaceted exploration of self-discovery and empowerment.

The album is a multilingual and stylistic feast. Nar features a pulsating electronic beat with hip-hop verses by guest artist Ami Yerewolo. L’amour dives into an ambient soundscape before transitioning to a multilingual rap by Mathlouthi herself. The song’s haunting melody is punctuated by thought-provoking questions, culminating in an exhilarating climax.

Souty (‘My voice’ in Arabic) evokes Emel’s earlier works with its raw power. A simple piano melody lays the foundation for her soaring vocals, accented by ethereal backing harmonies. The track explodes in its second half with Eastern instrumentation, featuring soul-stirring strings and powerful vocals. The lyrics, translated to ‘My voice has no limits, my voice has no end’, resonate through the breathtaking production.

Lyrically, MRA delves into themes of unity, self-belief, and overcoming societal constraints. Songs like Pride and IDHA are anthems of empowerment, urging listeners to break free from limitations. The album’s powerful metaphors paint a vivid picture of this struggle.

MRA showcases Emel’s artistic evolution. The electrifying blend of genres creates a dynamic listening experience that perfectly complements the album’s message of female solidarity.

More than just music, MRA is a testament to the power of women working together. It’s a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the fight for a more just world.