Preview: Malique OK

I’m calling this a preview because the album hasn’t sat with me long enough for me to comfortably say that I know exactly what I feel about it. What I am going to write is based on two listens.

OK, as has been widely publisized, is predominantly recorded in the Malay language. This should however not deter listeners from being interested. Before expanding further, it is necessary for you listeners out there to fully comprehend one thing: Malique, as a musician is a perfectionist in every sense of the word. This can be seen in the Too Phat recordings and I have personally witnessed the man’s work ethic. Therefore, it comes to no surprise that when he decided to make a solo album, it would result in something monumental no less.

This two disc album contains 20 tracks and features Malique touching on topics ranging from love, life, Kuala Lumpur and everything close to his heart. The first track released to the public, Kau Yang Punya is a definite radio winner and I hear it is getting mad radio play in Indonesia. Another standout track is Mantera Beradu featuring the legendary M. Nasir. I feel M. Nasir did not compromise his style to fit with a hip-hop vibe, and the result was a perfect mix of hip-hop and traditional malay folk music. The album’s namesake track, OK, which features Cat Fabuloso, and KL Streets featuring Lah are also notable songs.

I personally enjoyed Pergi Jauh and Layu.  This album is generally defined by the honesty of its lyrics, the smooth delivery and clever wordplay so representative of Malique and the simplicity of the message in each track. Also, many talented vocalists lent their gifts to this albums production i.e. Elvira, Najwa, Zaf and Lah.

There’s no need to hesitate. OK is definitely better than OK. It is both seminal and a must have. Listeners will be left with only one question on their minds:

Who is Chi Qa?

06.07.08. OK.