MUSTAFA KHETTY

Mustafa Khetty’s new release ‘War Criminals’ serves as a poignant and impassioned commentary on the siege and destruction of Gaza, inspired by the ‘collective punishment’ of the state of Israel.
The song intricately weaves haunting ethnic vibes with elements of rock fusion, capturing the trauma and resilience of the Palestinian people.
Mustafa’s lyrics convey a powerful message, highlighting the desire for freedom and the harsh realities faced by those in Gaza.
He criticizes the singular chorus of condemnation of Hamas by mainstream media, and not a single rebuke of the settler colonial state, Israel whose excess of ‘the right to defend’ has killed over 15,000 including 8000 children.
The song serves as a stark reminder that war criminals continue to evade justice, and international institutions are falling short in addressing these issues.
The haunting ethnic tones of the Kaval and Oud, layered with dark synths, create a somber atmosphere that mirrors the dystopian existence of the people in Gaza, and the transition into a fusion of slap bass and ethnic percussion symbolizes the resilience and yearning for freedom amid forced enslavement.
The progression into a prog rock chorus, punctuated by anthem-like screams of ‘War Criminals’ underscores the gravity of the situation.
The lyrics, characterized by poetic simplicity, convey a poignant message of the sweet allure of freedom, even in the face of potential sacrifice and death.
Mustafa Khetty’s contextualization of Gaza as an open-air concentration camp, a stark reality in which daily human suffering of unimaginable proportions from the indiscriminate carpet bombing.
As the music builds to a prog rock melodious chorus, punctuated by powerful intervals of anthem-like screaming, ‘War Criminals’ echoes the pain and resilience of a people seeking freedom and justice in the face of incredulous and terrifying adversity.
The track not only serves as a musical piece but also as a call to awareness, urging listeners to reflect on the complexities and injustices of the geopolitical landscape.
Mustafa Khetty draws influences from early ’70s progressive music, classical composers, and world music.
Hailing from Sri Lanka and later finding solace in the ‘damp, soggy’ landscapes of Ireland during the early ’70s, Mustafa immersed himself in the country’s vibrant humor, literature, music and sport.
It was during this time that he also discovered a profound admiration for the progressive music of that era, which served as a wellspring of inspiration for his creative endeavors.
The artistic influences transcend boundaries, seamlessly traversing continents to create a captivating sonic tapestry.
It invites audiences to immerse themselves in a world where genres intertwine, cultures harmonize, and creativity knows no bounds.
He encapsulates a true originality that captures the hearts and minds of listeners, compelling them to embark on a musical journey alongside with him…Mustafa Khetty