Hiatus dedicates the track to his late Grandmother
British-Iranian producer Hiatus now unveıls another track from his upcoming album, “Is.” The latest single, “Matriarch,” is a heartfelt tribute to his late grandmother, Aalam, and a celebration of female power in a country often defined by male narratives.
Check out our latest piece on the new single from Fred Agaın
“Matriarch” is an electronic elegy that blends western and Iranian musical styles. The track features the playful laughter of Hiatus’ grandmother, sampled from a clip sent by her caregiver. The music, a fusion of fluttering beats, synths, and growling bass, is enhanced by the melodies of Matt Falloon on lap steel guitar and Faraz Eshghi Sahraei on kamancheh.
Hiatus, whose real name is Cyrus Shahrad, recalls the profound impact his grandmother had on his life. “Aalam lived through wars, revolutions, and personal hardships. Yet, she always found a way to laugh and see the humour in life,” he shares.
The accompanying music video, directed by Hiatus, features clips from over-the-top Iranian fight movies from the 1960s and 70s. While the original concept included footage of his grandmother, Hiatus ultimately decided to remove it, feeling it was inappropriate to use her image without her permission.
“Is,” Hiatus’ fifth album, is a joyful celebration of life and connection. The record features collaborations with Iranian singer Malahat Haddad and kamancheh player Faraz Eshghi Sahraei. It marks a departure from the more somber tone of his previous album, “Distancer,” reflecting the optimism and hope that emerged from performing live shows after a decade-long hiatus.
