Lebanese composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Charif Megarbane recently released his single “Hanadi,” the lead track from his upcoming album Hawalat.

Recorded in rural France in May 2024, “Hanadi” is inspired by 1980s Somali pop, featuring non-lexical vocals by Sahra Halgan and saxophone by Dana McWayne, all set against a backdrop of 808 beats and space disco drum fills. The accompanying artwork was photographed amidst anemone poppies during the same week.

The full album Hawalat continues Megarbane’s exploration of themes such as diaspora and exile, expanding upon the inward focus of his previous work, Marzipan (2023). Hawalat features collaborations with artists like Sven Wunder, who contributes to the track “Helia” with an 18-piece orchestral arrangement. The LP is scheduled for release on the 11th of April under Habibi Funk Records.

Hawalat is available for pre-order HERE