Dua Saleh's "umbrellar" Is an Unapologetic Artistic Expression

Photo: Grant Spanier

Listening to Dua Saleh's music, there is one guarantee: you haven't heard anything like it before. You can tell the authenticity of everything the Minneapolis-based gender non-binary artist produces, from their music to the very intentional photos they posts on Instagram. There is a noted intensity, mostly dark with occasional pops of color, and Saleh's eyes seem to look deeper than the camera lens so that, you, on the other side of the screen, feel noticed.

Having only started recording music two years ago, Saleh is a blossoming force to be reckoned with. On the notes they choose to elongate, you can hear the sultriness and maturity of their voice. Saleh's latest single, "umbrellar," which is the first taste of their forthcoming EP, ROSETTA, explores the complexities of sexuality and a certain alien relationship.

"umbrellar" invites you into their explosively creative oasis, both melodically and visually. Listening to the track, you find yourself enraptured by both the encapsulating streamline of thought and the underlying driving beat. The music video is equally impressive and a unique look into Saleh's artistic eye.

The accompanying video features Saleh and another individual also dressed in all white amidst a forest. They dance freely, but are simultaneously imprisoned by bright ribbons that tie them together and blind them from seeing anything else. From unconventional angles in front of various geometric structures, such as a hollow standing circle and a tower made out of antique radios, Saleh boldly narrates an ode to what feels like an alien love.

Currently the cover of Spotify's curated Anti Pop playlist, Saleh embodies everything there is to love about a constantly evolving music landscape. "umbrellar" wonderfully challenges mainstream norms and is a product of unapologetic artistry.

Listen to "umbrellar" below: