Scarab

Scarab is a death metal band from Cairo, Egypt, active since 2006. The group develops out of Hatesuffocation, a band with roots running from 2001 to 2006 and two self-released EPs. Its name draws on ancient Egyptian culture, where the scarab beetle is associated with the sun god and with rebirth in the afterlife.

History and releases

The band’s recorded output includes the EP Valley of the Sandwalkers and its first full-length album, Blinding The Masses, both appearing in 2009 in the provided discography. The album continues from the earlier EP. Scarab’s music is described as combining different musical tastes and personalities into a single extreme metal sound.

Themes and style

The band’s lyrics focus on spirituality, theories and philosophies, and on how people understand the world around them. Their material also addresses survival and responses to chaotic human nature. The group describes its concept as groove, while also identifying with the extreme metal community. The music is presented as melodically memorable, with a sense of progression and narrative in its structure.

Recognition and live appearances

In 2009, Scarab wins the “United We Rock” battle, selected from 160 bands from the Middle East and pan-Arab countries. The band also appears at With Full Force XVI in Germany and Dubai Desert Rock Festival 2009 in the United Arab Emirates.