Stating the obvious: we live in increasingly tumultuous times. Communication and genuine connection feel harder and harder to come by, which makes it’s a blessing when people come together to create art. Even better when those works gives listeners a reason to bop, groove, and stomp it out. Best of all? When that art carries a message to get behind. ‘Nuclear’, a 5-track collaborative EP released from Nory Aronfeld and Nadine El Roubi, released today and is available on all streaming platforms.
Both artists, coming from Arabic backgrounds, created this project to shed light on the Arab experience in America. Across Nuclear, fusions of hip-hop and punk cut through pockets of sharp lyricism, commanding flows, and impressive production value. The lead single and opening track, “ENEMY OF THE STATE” immediately sets the tone: “They try to tell me I’m insane, I’ve got too much to say, if you ask them what’s my name, I’m enemy of the state”, all delivered behind an undeniably groovy hook.
The title track, “NUCLEAR”, features standout verses from the duo alongside an electric feature by Narcy. “LIGHTBEAM” is another highlight, balancing strength and sensitivity showcasing the full range of Aronfeld‘s flow and Nadines striking vocal ability, but her flow deserves just as much attention.
These two are clearly students of the game with their fingers firmly on the pulse. Nadine, originally from Sudan, now in Bed-Stuy, moved to New York in July 2024 and has already made a serious impact. Besides her own growing catalog of releases, she was featured on Mustafas Tiny Desk. Bushwick based Nory has been steadily cementing his place in New York’s hip hop scene, coming off a wave of momentum since opening for Hanumankind at Webster Hall. He has developed a reputation for high intensity live performances, often backed by a band.
With Nuclear, the duo deliver more than just a strong collaborative project- they offer a statement. One rooted in identity, resistance, and the power of art to connect people when genuine connection feels increasingly rare.
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