Music from Aleppo during the Syrian War: Displacement and Memory in Hello Psychaleppo's Electro-Tarab

Aleppo's tarab music tradition is explored through the work of Hello Psychaleppo, who pioneers electro-tarab, an eclectic style of urban electronic dance music that pays homage to the city's musical legacy. The music incorporates audio, visual, and literary samples from the Syrian war, Aleppo's musical and diasporic afterlife, and contemporary Arab electronic music, highlighting the role of music in the conflict and its socio-aesthetic parameters.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 20 July 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Aleppo, a city steeped in the rich heritage of urban Arab art music known as tarab, holds a significant place in the annals of musical history. However, the devastating war that erupted after Syria's 2011 political uprisings left vast parts of this historic city in ruins. This Element delves into the fascinating phenomenon of tarab's resilience, as it continues to thrive in new contexts. Through a close examination of the work of Hello Psychaleppo, one of Aleppo's displaced musicians and the pioneer of electro-tarab, an eclectic style of urban electronic dance music that pays homage to Aleppo's musical legacy, we explore how tarab lives on in the face of adversity.

Electro-tarab, a captivating blend of local religious chants, Palestinian poetry, and the iconic image of a yellow man, is a testament to the city's unwavering spirit. This genre incorporates a diverse range of audio, visual, and literary samples, serving as a powerful tool for conceptualizing the role music has played during the Syrian war. It offers insights into Aleppo's musical and diasporic afterlife, shedding light on the ways in which music continues to connect communities across borders. Moreover, electro-tarab sheds light on the socio-aesthetic parameters that define contemporary Arab electronic music, showcasing the rich tapestry of influences and traditions that shape this vibrant genre.

Hello Psychaleppo's music is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of art to transcend boundaries. His compositions weave together a rich tapestry of sounds, rhythms, and emotions, capturing the essence of Aleppo's musical heritage while also addressing the challenges faced by his community in the aftermath of war. Through his innovative approach to electro-tarab, Hello Psychaleppo has created a platform for expressing the pain, hope, and resilience of the Syrian people, inspiring listeners around the world to recognize the importance of cultural preservation and the transformative power of music.

In conclusion, Aleppo's tarab tradition is a living testament to the resilience and creativity of the human spirit. Despite the destruction wrought by war, this music continues to thrive in new contexts, offering insights into the role of music during times of conflict and illuminating the rich musical and diasporic legacy of the city. Hello Psychaleppo's work, as the pioneer of electro-tarab, is a shining example of how art can transcend boundaries and inspire hope in the face of adversity. As we continue to witness the ongoing struggles of the Syrian people, we must support and celebrate artists like Hello Psychaleppo who use their talents to bring attention to the human rights and dignity of those affected by war.

ISBN-13: 9781009073004