Cairokee Essentials

Cairokee—named to reflect pride in their hometown of Cairo—specialise in stirring, call-to-arms hits. They rose to prominence after the 2011 Egyptian revolution with politically inspired lyrics about freedom and progress. The band employ punchy guitars and pulsating synths to update traditionally Arabic styles, giving them a sleek, modern edge. Though their style has evolved over the years—exploring sparse instrumentation, atmospheric electronics and even occasional raps—they never stray too far from the raw energy of their rippling beats and wailing, classic-rock-inspired riffs.