'There’s no such thing as an Arab sound': Meet the DJ spotlighting the Middle East’s underground music

Egyptian writer, DJ, and radio host Nihal Al Aasar is dedicated to uncovering alternative narratives and capturing the cultural pulse of the Middle East's diverse communities. Raised in Cairo, she now lives in London, where her work responds to the region's changes, wars, and socio-economic issues over the past 15 years. Combining her love for writing and music, Al Aasar uses radio as a platform to fuse both worlds.

At a dinner party in 2022, she discovered NTS Radio, an international music community founded in 2011 in London. She started with guest appearances on shows, eventually landing her first gig as a resident DJ. Her show, "Nile to Bank," delves into traditional DJ sets, art-oriented performances, and experimental selections that span various genres from across the Middle East.

Al Aasar emphasizes that there is no singular "Arab sound." She aims to represent underground contemporary music scenes from different Arab countries, highlighting the vibrant music scenes that often go unrecognized in the West. Her radio platform, Nile to Bank, serves as an extension of her worldview, inviting guests and activists to discuss regional issues while showcasing various musical styles like deep industrial breakbeat, techno, Mahraganat, rap, and electronic music.

By presenting a multifaceted practice that encompasses music, art, and cultural commentary, Al Aasar offers a fresh perspective on the Middle East's complex cultural landscape. She believes that art and music don't exist in isolation and that politics can be intertwined with everyday life, drawing inspiration from historical figures like Umm Kulthum, who used her concerts to support the war effort.