Tunisian avant-garde black metal project Gomma has released the standalone single “Experiment 4.4” through Hypnotic Dirge Records. The track introduces Armai’kh, a second persona whose approach moves the project into more experimental territory.
Founded by Gh’ramm in 2024, Gomma has previously combined raw black metal with Arabic folk influences. “Experiment 4.4” is the first track attributed to Armai’kh, who is presented as a contrasting presence within the same project.
While Gh’ramm represents a more misanthropic and abrasive side of Gomma, Armai’kh is described as calmer, more colourful and less restricted by convention. That contrast shapes a nine-minute track built from irregular sections, organic textures and everyday objects.
A clock’s ticking is used as percussion, while a cooking pot and a bowl of water also become part of the arrangement. Rhythmic breathing appears within the track, alongside black metal and Arabic folk elements.
“My nihilistic nature dominates me to an extreme degree, yet, in some fleeting moments of insanity, a love for life emerges within me, and I cannot express it openly without a mask.”
Speaking exclusively to AFRICA.ROCKS, the musician behind Gomma described the single as a turning point for the project:
“To be honest, this track is a milestone for Gomma – ڨمَّةْ. Initially, it was only the first persona, Gh’ramm, who made the previous two albums. This track is unconventional, as it is the first to introduce Armai’kh, the second persona, who contrasts with Gh’ramm in looks, taste and personality. Gh’ramm is more misanthropic and a hard-ass, while Armai’kh is more laid-back and unbound by conventional ideologies. Since they both share the same vessel, me, Armai’kh tries to express himself and free himself from the darkness by producing music.
“In reality, I tried to go beyond the boundaries of what defines black metal, experimenting with different methods: using the ticking of a clock, a cooking pot and a rhythmic breathing pattern, and splitting the song into uneven, distinct parts. You could say it is a form of rebellion against myself. There is a conflict that I try to express. My nihilistic nature dominates me to an extreme degree, yet, in some fleeting moments of insanity, a love for life emerges within me, and I cannot express it openly without a mask.
“Having Armai’kh as a break from that gloomy existence is a breather for me. This track is a turning point for Gomma – ڨمَّةْ, as these experiments will keep emerging, each time trying to break free. In a sense, I am in a battle against myself, and I can neither win nor lose, stuck in perpetual torment. I have no idea who will have more control over Gomma – ڨمَّةْ in the future: me or me.
“I know this is edgy, but Gomma – ڨمَّةْ is a very personal project and a reflection of me, so I try to express it, both in words and music, as raw as possible.”
The music and cover artwork for “Experiment 4.4” were created by Armai’kh. The single is available through Bandcamp, Ampwall, YouTube and other digital platforms.
