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…
In a world of familiar tracks, MJoobi—also known as Soheil Mahjoobi—has been the master hand behind some of the most unforgettable sounds in Iranian music, blending tradition with innovation. His journey in music started at 17, DJing at underground parties with a friend in Iran. Determined to explore beyond DJing, MJoobi delved into music software,…
Jomeh(Friday)' stands as one of Farhad Mehrad's most iconic and emotionally charged songs. Composed by Esfandiar Monfaredzadeh and with lyrics by Shahyar Ghanbari, the track presents a somber view of Friday—a day traditionally associated with rest and joy-by transforming it into a symbol of existential emptiness. Farhad's powerful, gravelly voice imbues the lyrics with a…
Nikol Faridani was a revered Iranian photographer known for his unwavering dedication to documenting the natural beauty of Iran. Over decades of work, Faridani became one of the most influential figures in Iranian landscape photography, his images capturing the essence of the country’s diverse terrains—mountain ranges, deserts, forests, and lakes. Faridani's deep connection to nature,…
For those whose playlists seldom include rap, choosing an Iranian rap track when it's your turn to play DJ can be a daring move, especially if you dive into the newer sounds of the genre. Expect a mix of surprise, curiosity, and even resistance from your friends. The challenge is to find a song that…
Abbas Mehrpouya’s approach to music was not just a personal journey; it was an expansive vision to transform the Iranian music scene, blending influences from the East, West, and beyond. His time in India, where he studied under the guidance of sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar, was pivotal in his development as an artist. The sitar,…
In 1997, the collaboration between Bijan Pakzad and Michael Jordan marked a defining moment in the intersection of luxury fashion and sports culture. Bijan, known for his opulent designs and exclusive boutique on Rodeo Drive, was already a name synonymous with the world of high-end fashion. His ability to craft fragrances that were as elegant…
If you're looking for a spine tingling film to watch this Halloween, "A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night" is an excellent choice. Directed by Ana Lily Amirpour, this Iranian vampire presents a unique twist on traditional horror tropes. The film follows a mysterious girl, often referred to as "The Girl," who roams the desolate…
In the pantheon of Iranian cinema, few names resonate as powerfully as Samuel Khachikian. A true pioneer, Khachikian carved out a space for himself in the mid-20th century as one of Iran’s foremost filmmakers, drawing from his deep understanding of global cinema and infusing it with a distinctly local sensibility. Known for his thrilling narratives,…
Shirin Aliabadi's work uniquely captures the evolving identity of young Iranians, particularly women, in a society with complex social expectations. Beyond Girls in Cars, her pieces often feature young women embracing pop culture, beauty trends, and Western fashion symbols, yet they remain deeply rooted in an Iranian context. By capturing elements like dyed hair, colorful…