Bedouin is a Brooklyn-based production & DJ partnership between nomads Tamer Malki and Rami Abousabe who are creating their own idiosyncratic spell of melodies and rhythms. Together they share an eclectic sonic vision that pulls from diverse influences owing to their Middle Eastern heritage, Western upbringing, and world travels. Their combined musical backgrounds and ever-evolving taste captures the sensibility of imagination and constantly explores the connection between ourselves and the future.
We caught with Bedouin to chat about their new label and latest projects.
Electronic Groove: Hello, Rami and Tamer, hope you are well in these convulsed times. Congratulations on the launch of your label ‘Human by Default’. What was the reason to create your own imprint?
Bedouin: thanks for the invite. We wanted to create a platform to curate the music and artists we feel are special. We also want to be in control of the way our music is presented with no shortcuts.
EG: The first release ‘Whistleman’ EP brings 3 original tracks. What was the inspiration to produce them?
Bedouin: The inspiration for ‘Whistleman’ actually came from our concept for the label which at the heart of it is thinking for yourself. As artists, we embrace the freedom to make our own choices.
EG: Should we expect Bedouin’s trademark sound in the coming releases or maybe you would like to experiment a little bit?
Bedouin: Well, our trademark sound is a product of an artistic process that is constantly evolving. There are many constants but there are also many variables to play with. There doesn’t seem to be any shortage of possibilities tho. For us, the most exciting track is the one that has not yet been written.
EG: Pablo Fierro gives his own touch remixing ‘Whistleman’. Are you happy with his version? Why did you choose him?
Bedouin: Pablo is one of the most talented artists we have come across in our many years studying music. His version of ‘Whistleman’ gives the track a place at the party and on the dancefloor. We really couldn’t be more happy with it. It’s still on repeat for me 🙂
“As artists, we embrace the freedom to make our own choices”
EG: What else is planned on the label? Any sneak peek you can share with our readers?
Bedouin: We are pushing our releases every three weeks approximately because of the large influx of music. I would say in terms of publishing music as Bedouin we are just getting started.
EG: Regarding the current COVID-19 situation, where are you now and what kind of activities you have been doing during this period?
Rami: Painting and playing guitar for me… It’s been a good time to dive deep into some complex tools in the studio as well as explore some new potential for our show.
Tamer: Catching up with family and friends… I made a little studio in my apartment and been spending many hours writing music. Hanging out on my terrace and watching NY’s empty streets.
EG: Electronic Groove: The music industry could face some tough times, more specifically clubs and events. Do you foresee a new direction of the business side of it?
Bedouin: It seems very possible that more social platforms may arise from this period. I think people will be more open to the idea of living virtually.
EG: Should we expect a Bedouin livestream session soon?
Bedouin: That’s a good question:) It’s important to us that we connect with our audience at this difficult time so we are working on some kind of presentation.
Bedouin’s ‘Whistleman’ is now available via Human By Default. Stream and buy here.