Cairo’s local music scene is overflowing with budding new talent. But if you’re on the lookout for something different among the myriad of cover bands, check out Break. Their original, refreshing style and powerful lyrics are inspiring.
The independent oriental rock band was established a year ago. Break brought together a unique blend of young, talented, and above all passionate musicians who shared the same dream.
“We want to reach people from all walks of life with simple words transmitting meaningful messages, explained Ahmed Mostafa, lead guitarist – a tall order for a 20-year-old. Then again, it is the unspoiled youth who have faith that life can be transformed through music.
Lead singer Wael Amer infuses the lyrics with an enchanting spirit. His ability to relay the emotional dimensions of the words he sings, is only partly because – together with Mostafa – he has a hand in writing the songs.
His talent is undeniable, and as the winner of the “Starmaker competition in 2006, many agree. He could have easily launched a solo career, Amer remarked, but he chose to focus on his band instead.
One of Mostafa and Amer’s new songs, “Saba’ Sanaea’ (Seven Skills), like most of their songs, tackles societal struggles. It relates the story of a young man who studies through high school, investing in private lessons, only to graduate and join the throngs of unemployed youth. The boy next door, in contrast, has a much easier time finding a job through his affluent family’s connections.
And, like any band comprised of young men, Break can’t steer away from the trials and tribulations of romantic relationships. But “Marina adds a twist of originality. A couple fall in love as couples do. The young man goes to his girlfriend’s father and asks for her hand in marriage. Reality set in, however, when he asks for a car, a large apartment and a villa in Marina. Break’s music is like a cross between Eric Clapton and Mohamed Abdel Wahab, combining the traditional elements of Egyptian music with influences of classical western rock and jazz. These influences mingle and create something completely new and genuinely beautiful.
Watching them on stage is an extraordinary experience. The gorgeous notes of the violin make your soul dance, the drums seem to replace the beat of your heart and the joy and good mood that just the percussion player radiates brighten up your day. Break is a breath of fresh air in an overcrowded sea of young talent.
Break will be performing at Al Azhar Park in Cairo – at the main entrance – this evening at 8 pm.
