Album Spotlight: Massar Egbari - ‘Mabaetsh Akhaf’

After two decades together, Egyptian alternative rock group Massar Egbari have seen it all – both the highs and lows that come with being one of Egypt’s most enduring bands. What began as a group of friends making music for fun eventually became a defining force in the region’s alternative scene. But as the years went by, so did their perspectives, changing along with the band itself.

The foundation of Massar Egbari was built on shared musical passion, long before they became bandmates. Some of them had known each other since childhood, crossing paths through different projects before organically coming together. Their early days were shaped by chance encounters, including a collaboration with a French trumpet player living in Alexandria. That experience – jamming with a mix of Arabic, French, Italian and Spanish influences – set the stage for the eclectic identity they would later carve out for themselves.

At the time, there was little competition in Egypt’s independent music scene, which gave them the freedom to experiment without pressure. The focus was never on industry trends or marketability; it was on making the music they loved. Over the years, however, as they moved their base from Alexandria to Cairo, the realities of the industry crept in. The band found themselves caught in the current of commercial expectations, questioning their sound and at times feeling the need to conform. They tried different approaches – following what was popular, second-guessing their instincts – but eventually realised that this path wasn’t nearly as fulfilling.

Their latest album ‘Mabaetsh Akhaf’ marks a return to their core identity. It’s a reflection of their journey, a declaration of creative freedom, and an acknowledgement of the missteps along the way. Instead of chasing trends, the band embraced their originality again, crafting 12 songs that feel like a new beginning.

For Massar Egbari, the past 20 years have been about more than just music. It’s been a process of growth, rediscovery, and learning when to let go of fear. And now, they’re moving forward on their own terms.

Watch the full interview here: