On an unusually warm January evening in New York City, Nigerian artist Nneka held an private listening session at the cozy Cielo night club. A small crowd of lucky patrons filed the West Village spot, with the exclusive promise of a live performance. For about an hour, a down to Earth Nneka rocked the house with snippets from her upcoming US release Soul Is Heavy, due out February 28 on Decon Records.
The dim lit atmosphere set a serene mood as the host welcomed her guests to get a little closer to the stage. The intimate space of the tiny dance floor provided the best acoustics in the house and a sense of being right on stage with the artist. Finally, Nneka began her set with “Shining Star.”
As a song focused in refuge, “Shining Star” is a soft heart felt ballad delivered by the sincere and passionate vocals of The artist. Next, Nneka divulged in some casual conversation before diving into the next piece, “Do You Love Me Now.” It stands as socio-political commentary to the state of affairs in Nigeria and the world over in any situation, “where you are forced to respect the system,” as “fear is respect and respect is fear.” In that respect it is a love song, which poses the question; “do you love me now that I’ve changed to become what you want me to be?” as in a “robot” or “living dead.” The sweet and soulful rhythm provokes thought with a sense of enlightened peace. This was followed by “camouflage,” a piece on the many faces people wear vs what truly lies beneath.
To conclude her performance, Nneka ended with the leading single from Soul is Heavy, “My Home.”. The short yet filling showcase masterfully provided an intimate peek into what can be expected from Nneka’s latest Us release. The distinct and soothing vocals infused with Hip-Hop and Reggae influences based in African roots creates a unique sound, which sets this soul singer apart from the rest. Nneka’s message of political injustice, struggle & triumph can relate to anyone who has ever faced adversity, especially those who may have no voice of their own to speak out. For soul music rich with substance and high energy Nneka is definitely an artist to seek. Soul Is Heavy is due out on February 28 on Decon records.
by: Joshua Taylor
