Malfuf

Malfuf is an Arabic 2/4 rhythm and one of the fundamental short rhythms in the Egyptian-Levantine tradition. Its importance lies not only in its compact structure but in its feeling of rotation, continuity, and quick forward motion. For that reason it is often used as a short kinetic rhythm that links sections together or drives the phrase ahead. Modern references also indicate that it is one of the rhythms that can exchange structurally with certain 4/4 rhythms such as Maqsum and Fallahi through changes in the number of measures and in tempo. It should therefore not be reduced to Dum-Tak-Tak alone, but understood as a short rhythm with a distinct kinetic function inside musical form.

Malfuf is used as a rhythmic template for feeling the 2/4 meter. Start from the first Dum, then connect the Taks and rests to the movement of the melody or song.

No examples are documented for this rhythm yet.