TootArd's Journey From the Golan Heights | Quoz Arts Fest 2026

Music group TootArd discusses their unique blend of Arabic scales, reggae, hip-hop, metal, and synth music in this conversation at Quoz Arts Fest 2026. The artists explore their musical evolution, from growing up on Arabic classical music to experimenting with Western genres and instruments, and how their roots remain a constant influence. Band members Hasan and Rami Nakhleh, who come from Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights, also touch on the political undertones in their fun, danceable music that addresses serious situations while keeping the vibe uplifting. They share the story behind their recent track featuring Lynn Adib and her daughter Sara, a lullaby released during the war in Gaza.

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01:09 The Golan Heights Reggae Tattoo

04:15 From Arabic Classics to Hip-Hop and Metal

07:37 The Unfinished Business of the Quartertone Guitar

09:30 The Magic Trick of Party Music and Political Subtext

12:00 The Korg PA600 and '90s Wedding Synth Sounds

17:39 The Greats of Arabic Synth Music

20:36 The Lullaby with Lynn Adib and Sara

TootArd is a genre-fluid duo comprising visionary brothers Hasan and Rami Nakhleh, celebrated for their boundless creativity, consistently reshaping their musical landscape with each new release. Their artistry is a fusion of global pop hooks and quarter-tone melodic lines, crafting a distinctive blend of disco and dance music that draws inspiration from the rich musical traditions of SWANA and beyond. The duo effortlessly melds retro funk elements with a contemporary, high-sheen sonic palette, resulting in a captivating and boundary-pushing musical journey. Their music transcends geographical borders, captivating audiences worldwide and solidifying their status as a dynamic force in the global music scene.

Connect with TootArd 👉 https://instagram.com/tootard

Hosted by Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://instagram.com/mikey_mu

Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊 

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