When Kiki burst onto the scene in the mid 90’s, she very quickly became Gospel’s undisputed pop princess. With good looks, catchy tunes and a voice way larger than her petite stature, she very quickly stole the hearts and minds of music lovers throughout the nation. Big things were expected of her. Still, the long hiatus between her emergence and the release of her debut album did its bit to rub off some of the gloss off her crown. Now with the release of her debut, Kiki prepares to stamp her authority. (Read Kiki's profile HERE).

Her 12 track (9 song) self-titled album, was released late 2008. Her ardent fans will no doubt be grateful for the opportunity to finally own some of Kiki’s older material, which it must be said was undoubtedly grand. Who can forget the 2004 Ennovator-driven Usife Moyo, or the Gideon Kimanzi helmed Niongoze from a year later. Still, one must ask whether the artist is ready to let go the romanticism of the past and explore a bold new future. As great as they were, then, it is difficult to justify close to half of the album (4 of 9 songs) containing previous releases from the mid 2000’s. New material must dominate a new release, especially where the artist’s potential is undeniably huge.

That’s not to say the album does not contain a breath of fresh air. The Chakacha-based Tafuta may be daring, but well executed. Producer R-Kay weaves his magic on Malilikanie and Habadiliki. The former is an up-tempo Kamba gem that ropes in some of the community’s top vocalists, including Kisima winner Victor Mbuvi, multiple Groove winner Mercy Masika, as well as Esther Kalunde, Grace Muna and Israel Musee. Awesome! Don’t understand the language? Doesn’t even matter. This one will have you on the dance floor easy. Anyone for a Kalonzo presidency?
The latter is arguably the stand-out cut. Catchy, uptempo and at under four minutes, it could have been conjured in radio Heaven.

Kiki’s own vocal prowess is on glorious display when the tempo is slowed down. We appreciate the tenderness of her voice on the worshipful Holy, and the uplifting ballad Dawn.

All things considered, Kiki’s debut is a solid effort. Solid. Not spectacular. But it does have such bright moments, worth the price of admission. Look out for it in your local music store.

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