Seven years ago, on November 19, 2017, Ali Sorena released Kavir, a deeply personal and poetic exploration of identity, grief, and rebellion. With its stripped-down production and raw lyricism, Kavir carved out a unique place in Persian rap—a minimalist yet emotional masterpiece that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Collaborating with composer Saeed Dehghan, known for his experimental urban soundscapes, Sorena embraced a more introspective and grounded approach. The album’s seven tracks feel like fragments of a diary, each offering a glimpse into Sorena’s mind and heart. Here’s a closer look at the stories behind the songs:
Sorena turns inward, painting a self-portrait that contrasts his individuality with the norms of Persian rap. With sharp lyricism, he recounts fragments of his memories and asserts his uniqueness. It’s a declaration of identity and a bold reminder of what sets him apart.
In this track, Sorena addresses sparrows as a metaphor for harmless travelers and migrants, urging them to leave a broken country. At the same time, he critiques the system and laments its failures, blending personal frustration with societal commentary.
A heartfelt conversation with his late mother, Teryagh reveals Sorena’s shattered spirit and the hardships of life. Through tender yet aching verses, he confides in her about his struggles, making this one of the album’s most emotionally charged tracks.
Here, Sorena’s lyrical brilliance shines as he recreates his childhood like a theater play. He describes life on a farm and his reclusive nature as a child, addressing his father through much of the song. The vivid imagery and nostalgic tone make it a standout piece.
A haunting story unfolds in Maryam, set in a desert town. The titular character, a curious and open-minded girl, is accused of immorality by a merchant’s son. In defiance, she removes her veil publicly to challenge societal norms, but the community condemns her, issuing a verdict of excommunication. The song is a layered critique of tradition, judgment, and gender dynamics.
This track portrays a broken Sorena, exhausted from futile efforts and battles. He laments his loneliness and the ineffectiveness of escapism through alcohol and drugs. As a pacifist, he feels punished for his ideals, voicing a deep sense of defeat and isolation.
In Nafir, Sorena reveals a version of himself with nothing left to lose. Engulfed in a battle with substance abuse, he clings to hope and fights on—if only for himself. It’s a powerful closing track that captures the fragile balance between despair and resilience.