Shafiq En’ A-Free-Ka was my favorite record of 2009, hands down. I still play tracks from this record as if it were brand new, and can’t wait to hear this new project, called “The Loop.” Shafiq taps into the cosmos with this stuff, man. Lots of live instruments and great vocalists, but still what seems to be a very simple approach to beat making. I think that’s the beauty of the whole Sa-Ra movement, though. It sounds very stripped down, but, in my opinion, it could be an extremely complex production process.
Peep one of my favorite tracks from Shafiq En’ A-Free-Ka.
Before I praise this track, let me say that this might be the worst ending to a song I’ve heard in a long time. That said, I’ve been simmering on this one for a minute. Really listening to it as much as possible. Extremely strong beginning, with heavy drums and compelling guitar. It’s to the point where I’m waking up with this in my head. Hannibal has been making serious waves in the past two years, especially with the success of Quadron. He is working with numerous artists on multiple projects, but this is from an EP that is 100% Robin Hannibal. Production, vocals, everything. I get a feeling that this is more of an example of demos that Plug Research decided to release, which is why you have certain moments such as the end of this song that make you ask, “what was he thinking?!” Either way, I love this track…
