Fool’s Paradise
Arts & Crafts, 2017
7/10
The recording moniker of Ladan Hussein, as Cold Specks the Somali-Canadian songstress presents an intimate effort here, where songs about love, loss, hope and growth unravel with rich yet minimal instrumentation.
The title track starts the listen with stirring, expressive vocals in a trip-hop flavored atmosphere that’s immediately inviting, and “Wild Card” follows with a warm beat as soulful singing guides the soothing, funk friendly climate.
Near the middle, “Ancient Habits” finds a dreamy place to reside with ambience and electro-pop moments, while “Rupture” recruits keys and frisky percussion amid a stylish delivery. “New Moon”, an album standout, then buzzes gently as gorgeous singing flows alongside some futuristic stabs.
The last two tracks finish the listen strong, as “Witness” burns slow with much bare beauty, and “Exile” exits with gospel friendly group vocals where agile melodies are present and absorbing.
This is the 3rd album from Cold Specks, and it illustrates a step into synth-pop as guitars are sparingly used. While there are some subtle differences from track to track, the casual listener might overlook this, so it’s best to listen with purpose to really get to the heart of the record.
Travels well with: Jesca Hoop- The House That Jack Built; Hayden- Us Alone