In a groundbreaking shift for the global music scene, Seera, Saudi Arabia’s first publicly recognized all-female band, is captivating audiences with a distinctive sound that defies genre conventions. Named for the Arabic word meaning “story” or “journey,” the quartet truly embodies their ethos, weaving rich narratives through a psychedelic rock landscape infused with traditional Middle Eastern melodies and progressive rock elements.
This innovative Saudi Arabian Music group is not only creating compelling compositions but also blazing a trail for aspiring musicians in the region. Guitarist Haya and bassist Meesh express profound satisfaction in their role as pioneers, acknowledging their predecessors but highlighting Seera’s commitment to public visibility, hoping to inspire a new generation of female artists to embrace the stage and their instruments.
The band’s unique Arabic Rock sound is a testament to their diverse musical backgrounds. Meesh’s journey into music was sparked by Guitar Hero, leading her to the raw power of bass-heavy bands like Nirvana and Tool. Haya, on the other hand, drew early inspiration from flamenco and old Arabic Spanish music before a transformative encounter with heavier music solidified her path.
Seera’s compositional approach is deeply rooted in their heritage, with Haya focusing on Arabic-sounding intervals such as the harmonic minor and Phrygian mode. This deliberate integration ensures their music, while globally appealing, remains authentic to their cultural identity. Meesh, known as “the Locrian,” further pushes boundaries by experimenting with a fretless bass, allowing for the microtones characteristic of traditional Arabic music, adding layers of depth and authenticity to their compositions.
The emergence of Seera is indicative of a broader transformation within the Saudi Arabian Music scene. Once confined to underground house parties, the rock and metal genres are now finding more public platforms, propelled by the kingdom’s economic diversification efforts and increasing investment in its nascent music industry. This evolving landscape provides fertile ground for artists like Seera to thrive and connect with wider audiences.
Beyond their unique sound, the band pays meticulous attention to their craft, evident in their gear choices. Haya’s preference for classic guitars like the Stratocaster, Gibson SG, and Epiphone Flying V, along with her pursuit of the ideal humbucker-equipped Mustang, underscores her dedication to achieving a precise psychedelic and rock tone that complements their innovative sound.
As Seera prepares for their inaugural International Tour with shows slated for Sweden, Germany, and Switzerland, their mission remains clear and inspiring. They aspire to deliver unforgettable performances, ensuring every audience member leaves feeling invigorated, and crucially, to motivate younger listeners to pick up an instrument and embark on their own musical journeys, fostering a new wave of creativity.
