AKUPHONE

Started in 1980, as a group of young people with a pressing need to express their individual as well as their generation’s view of society, and to voice out their political and social positions. Sabreen Music happened to coincide with the different episodes of Palestinian history. Even though unplanned, Sabreen music and conveyed messages blended music with the social, political and historical reality. The Music of Sabreen is a reflection of a Palestinian experience. A’n Assoumoud (About Perseverance) was Sabreen’s first record in 1982 to talk about the Palestinian patriotic awareness, to talk about the struggle. In 1982 Sabreen produced Dukhan el Barakin, (Smoke of the Volcanoes) to capture in its music the revolution, the attack on Lebanon, the withdrawal of Palestinian from Lebanon and the occupation of southern Lebanon. Maout el Nabi (Death of the prophet) in 1987 was a proclamation of the role of youth, those who died for freedom and independence of Palestine, the youth that symbolized the revolution and victory. 

In 1994, and soon after the redeployment of the Palestinian authority into several parts of Palestine, Sabreen produce Jay el Hamam (Here come the doves) to symbolize the coming of peace, an era of conciliations and equity, at least this is what we hoped for. Ala – Fein (Where To?) Seems to be the question that every Palestinian is asking, the many ups and downs that accompanied the peace process, the negotiations between the parties are at a standstill. Ala Fein is a Sabreen’s unique musical compilation of songs that carry messages of social change and aspirations for a better world, for freedom. And lately Mazo’ooj - an ironic political compilation of songs that describe the social, political and economic realities in Palestine. The lyrics are simple and express the colors, the siege, the frustration and the request for change. It tackles different issues of a daily life. It is inspired by Palestinian folkloric styles of music and poetry zajal, folk music, story telling, with classical Arab singing influences and notions of rap music.

Throughout the albums we can see a shift happening. Their research on music became deeper, the words more transparent and symbolic. Slogans were avoided and words chosen had real content, talking about the different emotions human beings can have in different situations. 

The group has strived to remain true to its roots in maintaining a traditional sound, but also to enhance and develop its music by incorporating new sounds. It has a unique musical character, which deliberately tries to evade standard and often dogmatic categorization. This unique blend of music and cultures continue to distinguish Sabreen's music thus presenting it as a recognized Palestinian and International voice.

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