The keen reader will gladly remember Sheykh Forever. We wrote about them just a few weeks ago, celebrating the project as “an inspired, bold outfit committed to experimentation and eclecticism”. We stand by our words, especially regarding Sheykh Forever’s wide range of action. New single ‘Sleeping dogs’ is the strongest evidence of that. Taking a step forward, Sheykh Forever enters sultry territories, crafting a piece that’s nostalgic – as always – yet also playful and uplifting.
It’s perhaps an ephemeral feeling, given the meaningful lyricism behind the song. The contrast between its sonic livery – reeking of Funk and Soul era’s tropes – and the nuanced songwriting is pretty striking, with Mostafa Al (the human behind the project) borrowing with both hands from pacifist themes and anti-war resolutions. ‘Sleeping dogs’ is particularly great at that, thanks to its analogue-powered, grainy and retro character, which might draw a parallel to the 70s and the protest against the Vietnam War (among others).
Speaking about the specific tale contained in ‘Sleeping dogs’, Sheykh Forever explains: “It tells the story of one man nally overcoming the propaganda machine that wants to send him to die in a futile war.” The record might be nostalgic, but it is, from another perspective, incredibly contemporary.
Recommended! Discover ‘Sleeping dogs’ on Spotify:
