Palestinian-Canadian rapper Belly has dropped the surprise album 96 Miles From Bethlehem, described as being about “the gift, curse, and fate of being Palestinian,” although the record takes clear inspiration from the Israel’s military campaign on Gaza.

Belly, born Ahmad Balshe, was born the the Palestinian city of Jenin in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, located 96 miles from Bethlehem, before moving to Canada with his family when he was 7.

The dark, heavy hitting album features spoken segments in Arabic and occasional Middle Eastern melodies. It features guest appearances from fellow Palestinian artists Alyanna, Saint Levant, and MC Abdul, as well as production contributions from DaHeala (The Weeknd) with traditional instrumentalists.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Belly (@belly)

96 Miles From Bethlehem was released on Universal Arabic Music, which was founded by The Weeknd ‘s manager Wassim “Sal” Slaiby in 2021.

Belly’s new album, 96 Miles From Bethlehem is available now on all platforms.