Tony Saw.
The Opener is The FADER’s mini-interview series with exciting new artists we think you should know.
Thoom has had a hell of a year.
The Beirut-born, Los Angeles-based singer has been releasing music since 2020, but Zeynab Marwan has notched new highs in 2026 with her thrilling powerpop. In August, she released her debut album Everyday, Everything Is At Stake. Executive produced by Dylan Brady, the album pairs Britney and Gaga-esque synth pop with the kinetic sounds of contemporary Lebanon. She brought the new music to a string of dates opening for Bassvictim, culminating in a Halloween night show at Knockdown Center in NYC.
“Janani” opens the record with all-Arabic lyrics over a nasty, stomp-clap beat, while outro “I’m Going Back to Lebanon” is not only heartfelt, but decidedly hooky. “Did the summer end? Is it war again?” Thoom murmurs over a stripped-back pop beat, circling an all-too-universal feeling of homesickness even as she hones in on the political and ultra-personal: “Am I going back to Lebanon?”
The FADER caught up with Thoom over email to chat about No Country For Old Men, combatting nihilism, and the power of insistence.
Tony Saw.
The FADER: What’s the coolest thing to do in your hometown?
Thoom: Shopping in bourj hammoud. Then going to the most iconic armenian restaurant Varouj and eating lamb brain.
What was the first album you bought?
I think a Rihanna album probably. I don’t really remember
What was the last movie you watched, and give a short review.
I watched No Country For Old Men. It’s pretty much a perfect movie and the script is really good. And I love western aesthetic, but a little too nihilistic for my taste. Nihilism pisses me off right now.
When you’re not making music, how do you spend your free time?
I really like RPG video games. Going to the museum. Froyo. Weightlifting.
What’s a motto you think everyone should live by?
It’s not a motto but this image has been inspiring me all year. You should put it as your screensaver.
Explain a lyric of yours that people misunderstand.
Everyone can understand my music how they want to, I don’t mind
What’s a song you’d want to remix and why?
I don’t have a remix urge right now, but I love remixes!
Show us the last meme you saved to your phone.
What’s the best thing you’ve bought for $100 or less?
Anastasia Modern renaissance eyeshadow palette. I’m on my second one.
Tell us about your favorite tattoo OR your favorite accessory.
My fat gold ring.
Best advice you’ve gotten.
“Insist” that's one I gave to myself. I insist.
Worst advice you’ve gotten.
Honestly ... be really careful to whose advice you listen to and stock it up like data, then assess. Everyone has got their own insecurities and everyone projects so in the end, it has to come from your judgement. Nobody is the authority.
What’s the ideal level of fame and why?
Bending culture to your will.
Describe your perfect afternoon.
I had a perfect afternoon the other night on tour, where we were watching a movie on the bus with friends in big blankets, then I played a show I’m proud of, then we had an afterparty where I danced for hours and hours to really good music.
What’s something you’re looking forward to?
On tour I look forward to every day.
Describe the best concert you’ve attended.
Deftones in New York. I hadn't listened to them much before I went but it was the most memorable show I’ve been to and it reminded me of why I love live music.
What’s the last thing you wrote in your notes app?
That is none of your business.
Tony Saw.
