Nneka’s debut album, Victim of
Truth, garnered critical acclaim and opened the door to performing
with the likes of Gnarles Barkley and Sean Paul. Compared to contemporary
greats like Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu, Nigerian born Nneka left
her home in favor of Germany as a teenager, in order to further
her musical experience. The Western influence was readily apparent
on Victim of Truth, but the forthcoming and aptly titled No Longer
at Ease is a more stripped down, organic effort. What was once
an influence seems to have left a bad taste in Nneka’s mouth.
The deep, insistent beats on the first
track, Heartbeat, spread into your body and quickly fills your
listening space. Despite the infectious quality, it’s the
message of the song that delivers the hardest hit. The second
track proves to be more laid back, it’s throbbing beats
tumbling along with the vocals. Nneka’s soulful, smoky voice
crawls throughout both tracks, weaving in and out of thick rhythms
that will pulse beneath your skin long after the songs end.
The Heartbeat single will leave you wanting
more, but you’ll have to wait until June 9th to get the
album. (Angie Pardue)
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