The prog rock-style cover of Nick Hakim’s debut indicates that he is no ordinary soul singer. Like New York’s answer to Lewis Taylor, the cult British 90s singer-songwriter, Hakim drifts between genres and moods, displaying a soft spot for shadowy beats, Shuggie Otis, hip-hop and the early 70s, when psychedelia was embraced by R&B. His voice, like the music, has a dream-like quality, whether mulling over his girlfriend’s resemblance to God (the rapturous Bet She Looks Like You) or dissecting nightmares (the sensual title track). Needy Bees, meanwhile, a murky modern ballad, showcases his ability to gaze into the future without alienating soul traditionalists. Superb.
