BANA – Air (2025)
Quickly establishing herself as a trailblazer in the Kurdish pop scene and marrying that by stretching out to grab the global pop world by its coattails, BANA is an artist not to be ignored. Yet, as much as she has turned heads since her 2020 single ‘Bochi’, BANA is doing far more than singing songs; she is creating a movement. With complex melodies and moving lyricism, she shares that she “…wants to make a difference in my country and to be an example for young Kurdish girls. Whatever their dream is, I want to be an example. I exist, and you can too.” This is our introduction to BANA, so join us as we delve into her single, ‘Air’.
Retaining the optimistic bounce of her well-received single, ‘Kiss Your Best Friend’, BANA hits us between the eyes with the pop-driven single, ‘Air’. While ‘Kiss Your Best Friend’ is a bubble-gum pink pop tune, the new single takes things up a notch, stomping forward with a strong electronic pop beat. Produced by Mojam, ‘Air’ is a shimmering concoction of twinkling synths and bold beats.
While the track might seem just another tune to be placed alongside the likes of Ariana Grande and David Guetta, its vibrant nature makes ‘Air’ a song to be felt instead of merely heard. Produced by Mojam, ‘Air’ is a sonic whirlpool of kaleidoscopic glitter and fairies floating about with cheeky shimmers in their wake. Along with the synth-driven melody, that bold beat pulsates throughout like an anchoring heartbeat, simultaneously driving you forward while keeping you in check.
For me, the tune itself is intoxicating as BANA slips into your ears, rocks about your cranium, and slithers down your spine; however, it is her rich vocals that bring a more comforting edge to ‘Air’. Warm and honey-soaked, the voice does not shove you simply speaking at you; it is rather an old friend holding your hand and smiling as you dance about in this kaleidoscopic swirl.
So, what is my overall opinion of BANA and ‘Air’? A tune made for the dance floor, ‘Air’ is infectious. BANA is talented, but I’m curious to see if she can reach beyond her pop scope.
Find out more about BANA on her official website, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
Listen to more electronic pop music on The Other Side Reviews Electronic Pop playlist:
