Wax: Singles.EPs

Zaki Ibrahim – Eclectica(Episodes in Purple)

Artist: Zaki Ibrahim
Title: Eclectica (Episodes in Purple)
Label: Red Ink Music
Genre:Soul/Electronica

Sensually convincing is one of the first things that come to mind when describing Eclectica; the same might go for the songstress Zaki Ibrahim. In “Computer Girl” you can hear sounds that feel like you’re floating on a cloud and an undercurrent of the Vancouver native’s blood, stemming from South Africa and Scottish/English roots. Don’t get too comfortable with “Computer Girl,” because “You Choose” will make you nod your head and will give Esthero fans exactly what they needed to fall in love with someone comparable. Sade fans will be dumbfounded with “Connected.” The tone, Ibrahim’s soothing calm, and that familiar guitar that awakens and stirs your inner soul are the songs composition. So far the songstress averages a perfect score.

“Connected” is the type of song that you will listen to for days on end, play in your iPod on repeat (even for those of you who have never used the feature), and walk around 34th street in NYC during rush hour feeling like you’re floating on cloud 9. Soon Eclectica gives its audience a wake-up call. Ibrahim wasn’t making an album without a concept here: “Grow Again” comes with solid lyrics, vocals, and electric soul. Ibrahim offers an Amel Larrieuxesque interlude on that track, followed by the French/English “Lost in You.” There is no doubt that Ibrahim is talented.

It’s rare to go on and on about an album without mentioning any shortcomings. Eclectica has only one- the album is too short. Thank goodness a full-length album is in the works. One word of advice: let the album play and you’ll be sitting on Zaki Ibrahim’s magical cloud called (Episodes in Purple) Eclectica, fully satisfied.

- Regine Zamor

www.myspace.com/zakiibrahim

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