Kadhja Bonet was educated in a classical tradition, taught that music had to be played or composed in a certain way.
But then she went rogue. Plunging head-long into other forms, other styles, she began absorbing jazz, folk, soul, and psychedelia, writing her own material along the way.
New mini-album 'The Visitor' is out now on Fat Possum and Fresh Selects, and it's a fascinating introduction to a truly unique musical universe.
Supple and wide-ranging, her melodic flourish pulls together these disparate and bewitching influences into something rather special.
Clash sought out Kadhja Bonet to explore her cultured side…
– – –
– – –
Book…
I've just started Born A Crime by Trevor Noah. I think it's an important social narrative as well as captivating personal account. Trevor is bestowed with one of the highest gifts, bring humour to bleak circumstance. What's so special about humour is that it succeeds where pathos cannot, bridging differences and stirring a more intimate empathy.
TV Show…
I'm watching Atlanta. I think Donald Glover is super smart. The combination of tension, humour, philosophy… good TV.
Movie…
I'm not sure if you're going to like my film recommendation. Most people I make watch this film don't like it nearly as much as I do, even though in some circles it is considered a classic. Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf is an absurdist's portrayal of one evening with a troubled middle-aged couple. But I found the lens painfully accurate of the passive-aggressive ways in which people who have been too close for too long may communicate. There is so much subtext though out seemingly innocuous banter, and even though much of the dialogue will find you bemused, there's a second layer of understanding that is unavoidable.
And also Divines (2016) – directed by Houda Benyamina. If you could use a good cry!
Album…
You know, I was reflecting on this year of music, and I think the surprise stand out for me was Rihanna's 'ANTI'. About half of that album is absolute fire, which is a better average than most. The other half I skip for sure… but of recent music I find myself revisiting tracks from 'ANTI' the most often. Her delivery is intoxicating.
For the heads out there with an aversion, at least try the first few tracks – it was an interesting tactic front-loading the album. But I guess it makes sense given the modern attention span, and the likelihood of capturing all the buyers after they've iTunes tasted the first couple…
Video Game…
I was never a huge gamer, but still appreciate the classics, Street Fighter and Mario Kart.
– – –
'The Visitor' is out now.
