Mariam Nihal Saudi Gazette Disturb The Balance Disturb The Balance (DTB) is a local alternative rock/metal band that was formed in 2008 in Saudi Arabia. It was originally discovered by lead vocalist, Moe Zein, and consists of five band members: drummer Bader Awad, bassist Saif Mufti, guitarist Bandar Awad, and pianist Marwan Ghaziri. Currently, DTB is working on a new YouTube show called #CollabAcoustic #كولاب_اكوستك. Moe said: “It features collaborations with a variety of musical talent experiencing a fusion or a new rendition of covers and original writing of songs. The show will mix the oriental flavor with the westerner flavor together as well as our original music videos and new singles coming with interesting topics.” DTB plans to release their new album by the end of this year. “Plus we will be having few big events and collaboration with few well-known artists.” The first episode from #Collabacoustic will feature Teard Sindi. “We will release our Original Rendition of Breaking Benjiman Song - Diary Of Jane.” When asked about the difficulties they face, Moe said: “Like one of the most common comments we get is ‘We can't believe that you guys are a Saudi Band.'” Moe said the band performs on an international level while catering to the local music scene. “The only obstacle is that we don't get a lot of opportunities to play live for our fans, but we are managing.” Moe spoke about MixFm's host Big Hass called “The Beat.” “The idea is to support local talents and Saudi Arabia is opening up and trying to support the art here too.That's Positive.” Nadia Dandachi Nadia Dandachi, a 19-year-old pianist and a Saudi YouTube sensation, has been an inspiration to many talents in the country. “My very first piano composition is from when I was eight years old.” A student of medicine, she turned to YouTube to share her gift of music with the world. She has created a niche for herself and has been a sign for many Saudi artists to pursue music and share their talent on media forums. “My current ‘life dream' is to succeed in my career which is medicine. “I also hope to spread the love for music in all its genres more around the country, and maybe open a music school,” she said. Dandachi reached out to her fans by going public and performing with local talents such as Ayzee in Jeddah. In a recent interview with Saudi Gazette, Dandachi said: “It is quite hard in Saudi Arabia, probably because I am a ‘female' musician, which is something very new around here and which people are still not accustomed to. “The idea of music and especially piano isn't very popular and widespread here, but people are starting to appreciate it. I have received a lot of great feedback however, greater than I've expected, and I am truly elated and grateful – Alhamdulillah.” Ayzee Hamza Hawsawi a.k.a. Ayzee is an underestimated genius representing RnB in Saudi Arabia. While studying at King Abdul Aziz University, Ayzee works between studio sessions while simultaneously working on his dreams. He keeps a low profile largely due to his wise understanding of the industry and grounded character. After his first soulful EP called “First Words,” Ayzee is getting ready to return with brand new music on May 18. That collection of heartfelt RnB songs earned him great respect as an artist in Saudi Arabia. He said: “My purpose here is to change the idea of low quality Middle Eastern musicians. “Instead I will always try to bring out my best and collide with only the best to change this image or idea. “And with the love and support of my family friends and you guys anything is possible.” Ayzee is a staple name among local artists in the Saudi music industry and has collaborated with artists such as J-Fam, Omar Basaad, Mo Flow, Nadia, DTB, Ayham (AY Production). “Whether I was rapping, singing, writing, or even dancing, it's been for the love of music, and only for the love of music!” Al Farabi Founded in 2011, Al Farabi, named after the renowned Islamic scientist and philosopher, consists of five members: Diya Azzony, the producer who plays the electric guitar, baglama, and bouzouki; Saher Samir is the pianist; Emad Mujallad is on the drums; Noodi Al Eid adds the touch of Oud to the band's music, while Anas Gobori is their bass guitarist. Thamer Farhan manages the band that is under the local record label “Libra Productions.” Al Farabi stresses on soulful music that focuses on fusion and experimental genres. The talented musicians merge various musical styles played on a variety of instruments that represent a genuinely unique sound to the contemporary Saudi music scene. Al Farabi emphasizes on the traditional sound that resonates with Arabic poetry, striking a chord with the Saudi audience. The band enjoys “playing live, spreading real music and recording good music.” According to the band, Al-Farabi's new structure is more focused on sophisticated instrumental pieces while featuring talented vocals. In a recent interview to Saudi Gazette, the band's manager said not many people know of Al-Farabi's contribution to music. “He was a musical genius. He used to play many instruments and invented new ones too. He wrote books on music and one that is quite popular until now, ‘The Great Book of Music,' is still being taught in Europe.” Capitalizing on Saudi Arabia's high viewership share on YouTube, Azzony said: “We have an advantage here because our music is not competitive. We became popular within one year as the music industry has changed completely with YouTube.” The band creates sounds that speak beyond the ordinary and touch the soul of Arabian magnificence. Al Farabi (feat. Mothanna Anbar) – EP is now available on iTunes.