- Fatima's forthcoming album on Eglo was confirmed back in May 2013. Since then new music has seeped out slowly via a single, "Circle," and tracks have been aired at her ever-impressive live shows. The new songs have sounded consistently great, but this new EP is the strongest indication so far that her debut album could be outstanding.
"Circle" was an unusual move for Eglo as it featured producers from outside their usual crew. This paid off handsomely, with Computer Jay and Shafiq Husayn of Sa-Ra Creative Partners producing an instantly loveable beat. Here the trick is repeated: Family/La Neta sees Fatima working with fLako, a beatsmith not typically associated with Eglo but one who has delivered. "Family" is a sweet song dedicated to the joys of home. The backing from fLako, combining a sampled music box and light rim shots, suits the homely subject matter. It's a heartfelt expression and, as usual, Fatima's jazzy vocals shine.
"La Neta" is where things start to get really interesting. The record slickly switches tempos and time signatures, moving from introspective ballad to full throttle shuffle and back again. It's epic and intimate at the same time. Best of the lot is "Black Dough," a frantic track that viscerally delivers the shifts and surprises locked up in "La Neta." Manic, skittering grime beats introduce the song and combine with synths seemingly ripped from Mario Brothers. Just at the moment it reaches simmering point, the track switches into a slippery bass section and everything is draped in a beautifully soulful glow.
TracklistA1 La Neta
A2 Family
B1 Black Dough
B2 Black Dough Instrumental