It Gets Better by Mashrou' Leila

Mashrou' Leila, is the definition of an Arab indie band. They have the rocker persona, the outfits, the stage presence, the badass drummer and most importantly the music. It's cast of seven band members who are Lebanese and share a passion for alternative rock music. They sound hopeful for a better tomorrow as their title suggests, and they seem to have the tongue twisting skill needed to make that "wow" impression on listeners. It's been three years since the band was formed, and they already have one studio album released and caused debate with their satirical yet real lyrics.

The lines they sing sound like words my grandpa would use which give a vintage feel to the song, but the style and the music are futuristic for most Arabs. I began to think this is how Muse and Maroon Five would sound if they chose to sing in Arabic. I appreciate the breath of fresh air as this is a song that promises a better future and it was meant to be a message of support for all revolutionaries like the ones we saw in Tunisia and Egypt.

Aside from their refreshing music, Mashrou' Leila is perhaps the first mixed gender band in the Middle East. where Omaya Malaeb plays the keyboard.

Ghadan Yawmon Afdal - Mashrou' Leila [Official Video / Clint Eastwood cover]