Entirely shot using the Apple iPhone 11 Pro and edited on iPad by creative director Rabih Rowell , the cinematic video features Layla entangled between her lover – played by Italian fashion photographer Francesco Scotti – and her husband. The video is reminiscent of the golden age of Italian cinema, filmed in Dubai between the 16th century Italian Palace-influenced location of Palazzo Versace and the desert, with Layla recalling a modern Sophia Loren meets Monica Bellucci thanks to a series of lavish outfits lent by Dolce & Gabbana and Mrs Keepa, the Dubai fashion designer shaping the region with her provocative designs.
Part of a new generation of fearless creative talent redefining music, fashion and culture in Dubai, Layla works closely with AY, the music producer pushing new sounds in the region. With credits including cuts with TLC and Pusha T, for No Place, the sought after artist experiments with dark sounds, percussive drum beats cushioned by warped electronic sounds, distorted vocals and haunting chants, over which Laylas voice stands out gloriously through the mix.
Layla is a Third Culture Kid, born in Belgium with Persian roots and Australian nationality, she currently lives in Dubai, her cross cultural background has influenced her music and, which is deeply rooted in human nature and aims to transcend cultural boundaries. Part of the new scene of artists redefining the Sound of the Middle East, Layla is more of a music artist, from working with charities including Unicef on the education of refugee children, to collaborating with some of the biggest fashion brands and including Louis Vuitton and Chanel, as well as publications including Harpers Bazaar, GQ, Grazia, Vogue and Esquire, with the latter awarding her their Musician of The Year in 2018.
No Place gives us another glimpse into Laylas upcoming EP, one which shows the talented artists lyrical insight and points to the further reaches of her promise.
VIDEO CREDITS
Directed by Rabih Rowell
Edited by Jear Velasquez
Styled by Rabih Rowell
Hair and Makeup by Michel Kiwarkis
Still Photography by Michel Takla
Starring: Layla Kardan as herself
Francesco Scotti as Laylas lover.
Aydin Momtaz as Laylas husband.
