Queen Atara: ‘Calling’ Album

‘Calling’, an album recently released by Queen Atara, is a fine listen that shows many sides to the budding songwriter, singer and rapper. Featuring Nature Ellis (“Never Mislead Me”), Yah Meek (“Try”, “Forevermore”) and Don Eldee (“Just Think About It”), the 10-track album broaches many topics using various approaches.

The title track, “Calling”, is a nyabinghi-laced introduction, leading to reggae tunes that lean more towards roots-puritan influences where the sound is concerned; pop and hip hop are also blended into the mix. Atara sings about “toxic” love, gives encouragement, looks towards Jah and the ancestors and visits lovemaking in a wholesome, almost family-friendly way.

The Jamaican-born, Austrian-based artiste continues t0 be an ambassador in the mission to spread Jamaican music everywhere, especially in the diaspora. These connections are important to maintain, as our industry gains life by breathing in new influences and creating now methods of our own for export. “Calling” by Queen Atara is an album well done.

To follow Queen Atara and access her work, please see the accompanying links:

Instagram

YouTube Playlist

Blessings in abundance!

Monifa Goss: ‘Eve’ EP

A simple google search of the name ‘Monifa Goss‘ will show a plethora of accolades, accomplishments, appearances and accompaniments that have cemented the status of this burgeoning creative in Jamaican music. Presenting her EP ‘Eve’, Goss compiles six tracks that show genre diversity, a strong-will approach to subject topics, and proof of well-trained musical sensibilities. The EP was produced by the Creed Music Global and EMPIRE labels.

The tracks are generally catchy, and will certainly have your attention. Though not a fan of feminism, Goss’ interpretation of music in convincing enough to have me considering submission. From singing along to “Outside” and the impressive bravado in “Bad Gyal”, to hearing Daddy1 wax poetic with her in “Vibe”, the production quality is hard to miss. Also featured on the EP is Gabrá (“The One”).

I believe that what sets Goss apart is her willingness to explore. For men, women and others, music can be an industry where sticking to norms and expected patterns is seen as the safe way to build an audience and have a fan base. Monifa tends to leave safety behind and unleashes unbridled energy that manages to relate to those who aren’t even fans of her sound. Add to that her consistency to successfully punch above her weight, and you have an artiste that you definitely have to look out for.

To follow Monifa Goss and access her work, please see the accompanying links:

Instagram

YouTube

Audiomack

Streaming Link

Blessings in abundance!