Out of all the releases coming out these couple of weeks, Nabihah Iqbal’s debut album Weighing of the Heart was the one I was most looking forward to. Formerly Throwing Shade, Nabihah is a talented musician, record collector, DJ and presenter, who hosts an excellent show over at NTS. Diverse in her selections, you can sense the passion when she talks about new music she is playing and listening to. From jazz, rock, new wave, punk, electronica and world music, her tastes are translated beautifully on her album, a true testament to her talent.

Musically, Weighing of the Heart has an undeniable pop music and feel-good sensibility to it. It’s the dreaminess of a song like ‘In Visions’ or ‘New New Eyes’ that reminds me of new-wave music from the 80s and even Shoegaze, through the synth-leads and distortion in sound, as well as her mystical and subdued vocal performance, something that could fit perfectly on a My Bloody Valentine album. It’s the ethereal and dream-like nature of her music which makes me gravitate towards it. It’s important to note that the album title is in reference to an Egyptian Myth about judgement and the afterlife, which relates to the heavenly tone and overall theme of the album. ‘Something More’ is another highlight, an upbeat, groove and guitar-driven record, with a lyrical theme wanting to ‘search for something more’.

It’s exciting to see an artist such as Nabihah Iqbal blossom in such a beautiful and authentic way. That’s the reason she has embraced her name and true identity on this project, which shows how much love and connection she has to her roots. An inspiring body of work from a fascinating artist. Thanks Nabihah!

Listen to Weighing of the Heart below via Bandcamp and make sure to support! Released via Ninja Tune.