Throughout the Eurovision 2019 season, Hatari have a expressed their deep interest and sympathy for the people of Palestine. And on May 23 theIcelandic anti-capitalist performance art group made it clear their interest isn’t just a passing one with the release of “Klefi / Samed (صامد)” — or “Chamber/Steadfast”.

It’s a collaboration with the artist Bashar Murad, who hails from East Jerusalem. The city’s status remains disputed. Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem is considered illegal under international law. Israel maintains that Jerusalem is its undivided capital. Palestinians hope to establish their capital in East Jerusalem.

Hatari filmed their video for the song in Palestine’s Jericho desert and released it during their homecoming concert in Iceland.

The title of the song holds a double meaning. Chamber refers to an echo chamber, while steadfast relates to the perseverance of the Palestinian people.

‘Klefi / Samed (صامد)’ — Hatari feat.Bashar Murad

In a statement sent to wiwibloggs, Hatari vocalist Matthías Tryggvi Haraldsson said:

“’Klefi / Samed (صامد)’ is a thought on isolation versus solidarity, referring to the various echo chambers we find ourselves trapped within. The Icelandic lyrics have been with us for some time, but hearing it in context with Bashar’s lyrics and the themes he talks about as an artist living under occupation, we immediately had a feeling the two belonged together. Something clicked as soon as we combined forces with Bashar.”

Bashar Murad said:

“When Hatari first approached me to work together, I felt that it would be a great opportunity to continue the conversation rather than turn them away. It was clear to me that we share the same values of peace, love, and freedom of expression. The lyrics for me reflect the Palestinian suffering, which includes but is not limited to: checkpoints, walls, illegal settlements, and constant military presence. I hope through this work with Hatari we can reach people who had no idea of the situation here. I believe in the good nature of humans and that when they see hatred they will reject it.”

What do you think of the song and collaboration? How do you rate it musically, thematically and cinematically? Let us know down below!