It was in the sultry embrace of early August when the dance pop scene was graced with Hedara’s EP, “In & Out”, courtesy of AntiFragile Music. Now, for those who’ve traversed the pages of our site before, you’ll know I have a soft spot for dance pop. There’s something innately electric about the genre – the way it effortlessly marries pulsating rhythms with emotive lyrics, creating a landscape that invites listeners to both introspection and unabashed dance floor euphoria.
Though I might not claim to be an encyclopedia on dance pop, I cherish its vivacity and the feelings of exhilaration it instills. Each beat, each synth ripple, acts as a conduit to a world where worries take a back seat, and all that matters is the rhythm and how it makes you feel.
I’m also just a sucker for the mid 90s and early 2000s well-known acts. It’s a playlist I find myself revisiting frequently. But enough about my dance pop musings, let’s dive into Hedara’s latest offering, shall we?
There’s an inherent magic in covers, a certain allure that I’ve always been drawn to. For when an artist takes on a song that isn’t originally theirs, it’s akin to an author rewriting a classic tale, maintaining the essence but adding their own flair.
Covers act like mirrors, reflecting both the original artist’s brilliance and the unique perspective of the one doing the covering. And on a side note, we’re going to be doing a major series and feature with covers originals, that you might want to check out, And I can tell you now, this track is going to be a part of that feature.
“In & Out”. is rendition of ATFC OnePhatDeeva’s ‘In and Out of My Life’, Hedara’s take is truly a delight to the senses. For context, ATFC OnePhatDeeva’s original version was an iconic piece in its own right, revered for its spirited beats and great vocals. It was one of those tracks that wormed its way into the heart of many a club-goer, leaving an indelible mark on dance floors everywhere. It’s one of those songs that really tickle those nostalgic senses.
With such a formidable song to cover, one might question if it’s possible to capture its essence while also giving it a fresh spin. Hedara, however, rises to the occasion spectacularly. Her rendition pays homage to the original, retaining its zest and fervor. Yet, she’s not merely retracing steps; her version feels like a familiar echo but with an added vibrancy and charm that’s all her own. It’s as if she’s taken a cherished memory and painted it with her own colors, creating a masterpiece that stands tall next to its inspiration.
There is power in using one’s voice, in articulating thoughts and feelings, and “Talk” embodies that spirit. The track delves deep into the themes of assertiveness and empowerment, urging listeners to not only find their voice but to let it roar. It’s a clarion call to shake off inhibitions, to speak up, and to seize the reins of one’s narrative.
Musically, “Talk” is a delightful enigma. Hedara weaves a tapestry that’s at once mellow yet pulsating with energy. It’s like the gentle lapping of waves that can, in an instant, transform into a tempestuous tide. The song beckons you to drift into its soothing undertow, only to then sweep you up in its invigorating currents, compelling you to move. This dichotomy, this blend of the tranquil and the kinetic, sets “Talk” apart.
A reminder that even in our most reflective moments, there lies an inherent rhythm, a beat waiting to break free, urging us to stand tall, speak out, and dance like there’s no tomorrow. “Ambitions” is yet another song that’s a declaration. It’s an anthem of self-empowerment that resonates both in its lyrics and its melodic structure. It captures that fiery resolve many of us feel when we have a clear vision in mind.
Whether it’s painting the town red on a Friday night or forging a path in life with unyielding determination, the song beautifully encapsulates the spirit of purpose and direction. Hedara’s lyrical genius shines in drawing this parallel—showcasing how a fleeting moment of fun can also serve as a metaphor for life’s grander ambitions.
The layered vocals add a mesmerizing depth, each stratum enhancing the song’s overall texture. They’re like multiple facets of a gem, each catching the light in a slightly different way, yet contributing to the brilliance of the whole. The track is a perfect blend of thoughtful lyrics, wonderful instrumentation, and vocals that reach into the very core of your being. Love this songs message.
Ending the EP on a powerful note, “Hating on Myself” speaks to the age-old adage: never judge a book by its cover—or in this case, a song by its title. At first glance, one might expect a melancholic lament, but Hedara flips the script as the tracks title is a total misnomer. The song serves as an empowering narrative, reminding us of the importance of self-love and acceptance.
Musically, while it might be the most leisurely paced track of the bunch, its captivating elements are undeniable. There’s a rhythm, a heartbeat to the song that, though subtle, pulses with an insistent energy that compels movement. For Hedara, it shows to her artistry that even her slower tracks exude such an irresistible pull.
From the opening beats of the title track to the echoes of “Hating on Myself”, there’s an unwavering thread that runs through the entirety of this EP: an ability that gets me moving, both physically and emotionally. Safe to say, this EP will be making it to my gym playlist. This is one of those EPS in which each track pulses with an energy that beckons the body to sway, the feet to tap, and the heart to feel. Whether it’s the electrifying beats or the profound lyrics, there’s a force in Hedara’s music that’s undeniably magnetic.
Complementing her vocal brilliance is the impeccable production that’s been poured into “In & Out”. It’s evident that meticulous care and attention to detail went into crafting this EP. Every beat, every synth ripple, every layered vocal—it all converges seamlessly, creating a polished sound that’s flawless.
Here’s to many more tracks that move us fans, vocals that enchant us, and productions that leaves me in awe.
