Our first introduction to Sudanese singer-songwriter Gaidaa came by way of her 2018 collaboration with Full Crate. The acoustic tune captivated our ears and put us on notice that the Netherlands-raised artist was one to watch.
Now, with the release of her debut EP Overture, the 20-year-old is ready to show how much she's learned over the past couple of years. "It definitely hasn’t been easy," she shares. "This has been an eye opening, freeing and gratifying process that’s shown me possibilities I didn’t know of." She expounds in a recent interview with Okayplayer, describing Overture as, "my reintroduction to myself, my rediscovery and re-creation of Gaidaa.”
The 8-track album is filled with gorgeous songs that she began teasing last summer. Following a stunning performance of politically-charged "Morning Blue" on COLORS SUDAN, Gaidaa closed out 2019 with "I Like Trouble," a playful ode to being yourself. After premiering "Falling Higher" earlier this year, fans were primed and ready for a full collection.
Dutch producer Jarreau Vandal lends his midas touch to "Stranger," a downtempo introspective featuring Chicago rapper Saba. The jazzy/neo-soul outro for "Ride My Way" is lovely, while the feel-good, island rhythms of "Still Water" leave a lasting impression. "Say Yes (Turquoise)," a danceable tune featuring Afro-Dutch artist Joshua J, seals the set with good vibes.
As shown on the album's cover art, an overture can be defined as "an introduction to something more substantial." If this is just the beginning, we can't wait to hear what else Gaidaa has in store. In the meantime, download Overture for your permanent collection and keep up with the artist on Twitter and Instagram.
