12 years ago today, Ashkan Fadaei—a young, visionary rapper and a rising force in Persian rap—released Adl, an EP that has since become a landmark in the genre. Released under the Moltafet label, this six-track album was produced by the acclaimed Mahdyar Aghajani and Hassan, and featured collaborations with Hichkas and Quf, Fadaei’s former label mates. Together, these artists crafted an album that continues to resonate across the Persian rap scene. Adl is not only celebrated as one of Persian rap’s most well-rounded works, but it also introduced elements that have inspired a generation of young rappers.
Among these elements, two of Fadaei’s approaches in Adl became enduring models for emerging Persian rappers, shaping both their stylistic and thematic choices.
The first is his sophisticated use of literary devices, particularly “double entendre with associative wordplay” (ایهام تناسب), which he integrates into every track. This device—esteemed in Persian literary tradition—transforms each word into a double-edged tool, where one meaning appears plainly in context while another, subtly hidden, connects to other elements within the verse. This technique infuses Fadaei’s lyrics with layers of depth, inviting listeners to delve into the verses, searching for meanings beyond the surface. His skillful use of this wordplay evokes a unique experience, drawing listeners into the art of deciphering the intricacies of language.
Secondly, Fadaei’s lyrics venture beyond Iran, frequently referencing political, social, cultural, and historical events on a global scale. This broadened perspective adds a dimension to Adl that few Persian rap albums have achieved, speaking to a shared consciousness that reaches across borders. These global insights, alongside his Persian sensibilities, create a dynamic lyrical landscape that makes Adl relevant both within and beyond Iran’s cultural sphere.
Over time, Adl became not just an album but a model—a guiding framework for Persian rap. Its legacy can still be traced in the evolving sounds and themes of the genre today, reflecting how Fadaei’s artistic choices have left an indelible mark on Persian rap’s evolution.
