Kiss Facility Duo Discuss Debut Album Khazna and Cross-Cultural Musical Connection

Kiss Facility, the musical duo composed of Salvador Navarrete (also known as Sega Bodega) and Mayah Alkhateri, have released their debut album titled Khazna. Navarrete, originally from Galway, and Alkhateri, raised in the UAE, are romantic partners who collaborate artistically. During the album's creation, an interesting moment occurred when Navarrete, who does not speak Arabic, accurately interpreted the imagery in Alkhateri's lyrics for the track "Kotshena," highlighting music's ability to convey meaning beyond language. The pair first connected after Alkhateri shared Navarrete's music online, leading to a meeting in London. Alkhateri had previously hesitated to pursue music due to uncomfortable experiences but found a supportive creative partnership with Navarrete. Their work incorporates elements of shoegaze, a genre experiencing renewed interest among younger audiences, often referred to as "zoomergaze." However, Kiss Facility's sound also draws from trip-hop, techno, and dream-pop, distinguishing it from some contemporary shoegaze revivals. The album Khazna, meaning "hidden treasure" in Arabic, explores themes such as concealed desires, identity, and incorporates references to Palestinian poetry. Alkhateri cites diverse musical influences including Enya and various international traditions, while Navarrete emphasizes the primacy of emotional expression over lyrical clarity. The album features contributions from artist POiSON GiRL FRiEND and includes personal elements, such as a cat's vocal sounds. Khazna is currently available.