BODUR's "MAQAM": A Defiant Debut Album Explores Identity and Resistance
London-based artist BODUR is set to release her highly anticipated debut album, "MAQAM," on March 21st via PACE. The album, inspired by the traditional Arabic system of musical modes, promises a sonic journey that is both deeply personal and profoundly political. "TONY MADONNA [DADA]," the latest single to be unveiled from the album, offers a taste of BODUR's unique artistic vision. Produced by Lapsung, the track is a deconstructed, trance-like exploration of Middle Eastern pop, infused with the spirit of Dadaism – an art movement born from a rejection of societal norms. BODUR describes "TONY MADONNA [DADA]" as a "satirical act of dada," a playful subversion of the expected "generic lead single" often found on commercial albums. This conscious defiance reflects the album's broader themes, which delve into issues of racism, islamophobia, and the societal pressures that young people face.
"MAQAM" is not merely a collection of songs; it's a conceptual project that challenges conventional narratives and offers a powerful counterpoint to the dominant cultural discourse. Through her music, BODUR gives voice to marginalized experiences and offers a glimpse into the realities faced by many young people today. The accompanying music video for "TONY MADONNA [DADA]," directed by Furmaan Ahmed, is an integral part of the album's artistic vision. As part of a 35-minute album film, the video promises to be a visually stunning and thought-provoking complement to the music.