Reviewed by David Faulkner

Seiyefa is a Wigan-based singer/songwriter who has previously recorded under the name Seifa. She has the songwriting chops. Even if the standout track on this album "Over" (which appears in both original and remixed versions) sounds uncannily like a slowed-down version of Usher's "My Boo", there is no doubt she has the gift for melodies with a strong hook. Not only that, she has a sense of control with her voice so that she does not always feel the need to do the soul diva's equivalent of turning it up to 11 for effect. There is a dynamic range in her performance that gives room for emotion and subtlety. There is a "but" coming, though, and it's this: her undoubted abilities are badly let down by the production. Even in this world where do-it-yourself albums are possible, it is a long time since I have heard a recording where the fades and the endings are as crude and as poor as here. With a better production team, Seiyefa has the skills to shine. Right now, sadly, she doesn't have that team.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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