The New York-based band Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun brought an energetic mix of calculated chaos and gritty rock to Outside Lands ’25. Following their performance, they chatted with Atwood Magazine about writing for large venues, the rebellious essence of rock, and their commitment to tackling political issues.
“Baby I Could Never Win” – Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun
“Having fun is my main focus,” Kareem Rahma declares into the mic. “It’s my first, second, and third priority—just fun, fun, fun.” In the audience, Palestinian flags wave alongside hand-made signs reading “What’s your take?” Few would expect Rahma, primarily recognized as a comedian and online influencer, to be leading a band, but this evolution has been in progress for several years.
Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun formed when Rahma teamed up with guitarist Tyler McCauley to start writing songs. They later welcomed guitarist Joe Tirabassi from Darlings, drummer Dale Eisinger from YVETTE, and bassist Matt Morello from Mr. Dream into the mix. The result is a raw, visceral, and slightly sleazy sound that distinctly reflects New York's vibe, featuring driving drums, distorted guitar riffs, and Rahma's monotone vocals.
Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun © Maria Sakr
Their song “No Worries If Not” emerges as a melancholic rock ballad that captures the art of pretending not to care. The band sways as Rahma deliberately sings, “I asked for the truth, and you said why not.” This track was a highlight of their performance, prompting some head-nodding from the crowd. After the gig, the band welcomed me to their green room nestled among tall cypress trees and psychedelic mushroom decorations.
As Rahma passionately delivers his final lyrics and the amplifiers buzz in the background, it’s evident that this band is not aiming for a low-key presence. They blend humor, sharpness, and noise into a compelling package that is as engaging as it is challenging. Whether critiquing internet culture or addressing global issues, Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun are deeply committed to their mission. They give their all with a focus on their declared top three priorities: fun, fun, and more fun.
The band spoke with Atwood Magazine following their set to share their passion for rock music, their writing process, and their determination to confront significant themes.
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:: connect with Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun here ::
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“New Year, New York” – Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun
Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun © Embla Sveinsdottir
A CONVERSATION WITH KAREEM RAHMA & TINY GUN
Atwood Magazine: What’s happening with the band currently?
Kareem Rahma: We’re on a tour focused on writing. We’re performing new tracks while also creating new material. Our aim is to produce something that is both comprehensive and cohesive, squeezing in performances wherever we can.
Has performing these songs influenced your current writing?
Tyler McCauley: We played Webster Hall last year, which was a larger venue. We thought, “What if we wrote songs that are suited for a bigger stage?” So now we are considering how our music sounds in different environments.
Kareem Rahma: We’re creating bigger songs for bigger audiences.
How can your fans become these “bigger audiences”?
Kareem Rahma: They just need to think big. Having a big head signifies a big brain, which allows one to absorb a lot of information.
Outside Lands is unique as it incorporates a political dimension, inviting discussions that other festivals might not. You guys don’t hold back on your views.
Kareem Rahma: Some of our songs have political themes. I believe that rock and punk music are inherently anti-establishment, and that energy feels good.
Matt Morello: I like to think of us as principled individuals. The festival’s political atmosphere doesn’t sway our message; we’ve always been vocal about these matters.
Dale Eisinger: It was refreshing to see Palestinian flags at the main stage. Compared to Glastonbury, their response to expression seemed underwhelming.
Tyler McCauley: Some people lounging in the cabanas should be advocating against military support for Israel. I doubt they got the memo.
Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun © Justin Belmondo
Kareem, I’d like to pose this final question to you first. As someone of Persian descent who admired rock music for its anti-establishment stance, what drew you to it as an Egyptian-American?
Kareem Rahma: I simply found it enjoyable. I wasn’t joking when I emphasized that fun is my foremost concern. There’s an element of rebellion in it as well. My parents didn’t allow me much fun
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The New York-based band Kareem Rahma & Tiny Gun introduced a significant amount of intentional chaos and gritty rock at Outside Lands ’25. They later spoke with Atwood Magazine about songwriting for large stages, the rebellious essence of rock music, and their commitment to addressing political issues.