Ahmed Ali has crafted an arresting amalgamation of enigmatic synths, subversive rhymes and old-school shaabi satire in a distinctively Egyptian mode of trap. From the port-side neighbourhood of Al Wardian in Alexandria, he began recording rhymes under the moniker Wegz in 2017 with the goal of putting the city’s hip-hop on the global map. And he clearly has a gift for ice-cold anthems and melancholy rhythms alike. Via haunting hi-hats and his provocative flow, Wegz reveals profound moments introspection to meet the defiance and determination of his nation’s youth.