Looking There

Album Review

The debut album from Cameroonian songstress Kaissa, previously heard in America only on a stray Putumayo compilation or two. The sound is certainly informed by the Afro-pop traditions, but it's built into more of an R&B piece through much of the course of the album. Kaissa's voice is always the focus here, and a nice focus it is. Her phrasing is exceptional, and clarity and power are the hallmark of a strong African female vocalist. The original songs are all worth hearing, ranging from bouncing funk to nostalgic paeans. A stray cover of Stevie Wonder's "Big Brother" is perhaps the least noteworthy song here. While the performance and vocal quality are still at her surprisingly high level, Kaissa does seem to have some minor difficulties matching English phrasing with the song with her usual ease. Throughout, it's an excellent album. Possibly difficult to dig up given the small release, but more than worth it for anyone interested in new African soul and related genres.