"At the vibrant intersection of Tunisian heritage and British bass culture, Hmenou has carved out a distinctive space in the drum and bass landscape. His music transcends conventional genre boundaries, using North African traditional rhythms and Arab sound archives in contemporary bass music with authenticity and sophistication.
What distinguishes Hmenou's sound is his organic integration of these elements, not as exotic additions but as fundamental components of his sonic palette. Growing up immersed in these rhythms, he incorporates them naturally alongside his masterful drum and bass production.
His work draws from a rich tapestry of cultural sources, including Arab cartoons, vintage radio broadcasts, historical propaganda, and classic Tunisian television, creating a contemporary narrative deeply rooted in his heritage."
RELEASES
Wings Over Wires (compilation for Gaza)
In August 2025, a video went viral showing Ahmed Muin Abu Amsha, founder of Gaza Birds Singing, teaching displaced Palestinian children to harmonize with surveillance drone sounds. Tunisian producer Hmenou reached out to Ahmed directly. That conversation became the catalyst for this compilation.
The Project - Hmenou invited 14 artists from across the swana region to reimagine Abu Amsha's original recording. Each artist approached the source material through their own sonic lens, creating interpretations that span bass music, electronic experimentation, and beyond. All proceeds from the compilation go directly to Gaza Birds Singing, supporting Ahmed's ongoing music education work with displaced children.
With: Metttani, Roscius, Badiaa Bouhrizi, 3xOJ, GoodMostlyBad, Prophän, Syqlone, Acidfinky, Kasbah, 5amaseen, Ramin, Yalla Soundsystem X Cheb GPT, Omar Aloulou
All profits and royalties from this compilation will be donated to the Ahmed & Gaza Birds fund. You can buy the album on this link to support, but you can also send donations directly by following this link, which is managed by Ahmed himself.
credits Original recording by - Gaza Birds Singings Artwork by - Studio Akakir Composed by- Zaid Hilal Master by - Cedric Oléon (except track 1 by Lukas Turza, track 3 by 3xOJ, track 11 by Cheb GPT) Co-Produced by - Shouka
Bab Hwita EP (2025)
"Bab Hwita comes as MOSHTRQ’s second release of 2025.
Described as both a literal and metaphorical journey into the intersection of drum and bass and cultural memory, it showcases Hmenou’s unique and dynamic sound palette and is a fitting entry into the collective's all-caps catalogue.
The closer also best encapsulates Hmenou’s exploration of identity and belonging, a battle that often questions and inspires in equal amounts. What he proves with Bab Hwita, however, is that cultural memory, whether shared or individual, isn’t set in stone. It’s undefinable in scope, malleable in expression and, ultimately, available for reinterpretation - particularly when viewed through the lens of a contemporary sound that rejects commercialism in favour of a more critical, DIY philosophy."
Tinji EP (2023)
"Tinji is an engaging musical exploration by Hmenou, it’s a two-track drum and bass EP that harmoniously weaves the pulsating rhythms of the genre with the vibrant tapestry of Tunisian cultural heritage."
"The EP draws its inspiration from Sidi Tinji street in the Medina of Tunis, a place rich in memories and traditions passed down through generations. With its unique fusion of bass music and cultural nostalgia, Tinji is more than just a musical release; it's a heartfelt homage to Hmenou's roots and the stories that have shaped his identity.
The EP's tracks are equally compelling: "Howa, the opening track, ventures into the realm of subtle political commentary with a twist of humor. It samples the voice of the former Tunisian dictator, transforming it into the whimsical sound of a folkloric Tunisian wedding singer. Meanwhile, Ahla & Sahla nostalgically samples Arab cartoons and vintage Tunisian TV and radio shows, invoking nostalgia and a sense of cultural familiarity"
Rubricate Records.
LIVE SHOWS
TRAXI, GENEVA
Live in Paris, Petit Bain / STUDIO X VISION recordings
In October 2023, I delivered a live performance at Le Petit Bain, a special collaboration with STUDIO and VISION Records. This recording captures the essence of my live artistry and sonic exploration on stage
Live in Tunis / BALACLAVA / Feb. 2024
Playing for BALACLAVA, a real player in Tunisia's underground music scene, was an unforgettable experience. This collective embodies the essence of the underground, creating a vibrant community and keeping bass music alive in Tunisia. I deeply respect everything they’ve achieved and their dedication to the scene.
The Tunisian crowd is unparalleled — their energy is electric, and their connection to the music is palpable.
Performing for an audience that resonates with the cultural references I weave into my sets is incredibly rewarding. I’m immensely thankful for the opportunity to share my music with such a passionate and engaged crowd.
A special set I played for Cairo-based music media and label Scene Noise, with the talented 5amaseen, an Egyptian producer based in Brussels. 5amaseen draws inspiration from bass and club music, crafting his distinct sound with pounding kicks, percussive patterns, and distorted breaks, influenced by the sonic landscape of his homeland, from Mahraganat to Upper Egyptian folkloric music.
DJ SET at WARP 2022 by STUDIO in Paris
Because I'm a creature of the habit, it took me five months to upload a set. So here's the set I played for WARP 2022 in Paris. Thanks again to Studio and Kosmo for having me on the line-up.
DJ SET at RESURRECTION 2021 // France
I finally uploaded the DJ set I played for Resurrection 2021, I hope you guys enjoy it.
MUSIC VIDEOS
Based on my 60VPM video series, Freya Buckland, an animation artist from Bristol, UK, directed this animated clip for my track Ahla & Sahla.
UPCOMING GIGS
- CAIRO 27.05 // Cairo Jazz Club - CAIRO 29.05 // French Institute in Egypt - GENEVA 13.06 // Les Terreaux - SOUSSE 20.08 // Steps Club - TUNIS 14.11 // Bsmnt Club - BRUSSELS // TBA - PARIS // TBA
Hmenou 