Album Review: Nneka – Concrete Jungle (2010)
Rating: 4 out of 5 Potholes
What we have here is a pure mosaic. Light and dark shades hover amongst religious, political and social messages of triumph and defeat. While the album has a worldwide feel to it, there’s no shortage of intimacy either. If you would like a personal trip through the world’s second largest continent, let Nneka’s Concrete Jungle be your guide.
On top of the numerous tones and broad demographic appeal, the handful of genres that are brushed upon this Nigerian’s latest release ensure freshness. Sharp stroked “Africans” is Nneka’s brilliant take on reggae; As she cries “Wake up world! Wake up and stop sleeping!”, the emotional surge throughout the track contains a refreshing sense of optimism, as if the slumber could very well be short-lived. “The Uncomfortable Truth” has a Raphael Saadiq swing guiding an earnest plea for a healthier heart, by means of serious partner refinement. In an effort much more realistic than a Tampax “upgrade” commercial, Nneka seems focused on important relationship issues juxtaposed to juvenile why-haven’t-you-called-or-tweeted-me-in-the-past-hour complications. “Focus” brings out a fierce side of Nneka that was expected from the rest of the album, but never truly exposed. The electric guitar slams in the back as she consciously stands up against the intimidating social injustice bully. It’s Concrete Jungle‘s much needed grimy focal point, proof positive that this singer-songwriter isn’t one to hold back.
I didn’t even bother to whip out my Igbo-English Dictionary for Concrete Jungle, for I’d rather let the foreign words amaze me aesthetically, as the language truly is beautiful. It’s like Shugo Tokumaru’s Exit LP from 2008; No clue what the man is saying, but it sure as hell therapeutic.
Never short of powerful, Concrete Jungle is worthy of more than just a serious listen. Every track is carefully fabricated to paint a different picture of Nneka’s exertions and aspirations. It’s an Afrocentric effort that is capable of inspiring those who are willing to let it in (regardless of what race you happen to be a part of), and pleasing to those who are searching for a 2010 gem.
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