The group was simply interested in making music that honestly reflected its members ' experiences , keyboardist Omaya Malaeb told CNN . ` Mashrou ' Leila is a seven-piece alternative rock band from Beirut . They are known for their unique blend of Arabic and Western music, with influences ranging from the Middle East to India. Its frank treatment of taboo subjects such as sexuality and religion has drawn criticism . The band 's lead singer is openly gay , a rarity in the Arab music scene .
Mashrou ' Leila is a seven-piece alternative rock band from Beirut . They are known for their unique blend of Arabic and Western music, with influences ranging from the Middle East to India. Its frank treatment of taboo subjects such as sexuality and religion has drawn criticism . The band 's lead singer is openly gay , a rarity in the Arab music scene .