Hear - The Floacist's debut solo single

As you will establish from this blog's title, I have a penchant for Soul music, and more specifically, Neo (Nu) Soul. Just as its name suggests, this music is food for the soul, rich with meaning, soothing melodies and angelic vocals. Good Neo Soul music evokes strong emotions, whether that be those of love, sorrow or joy, and invites you to live through some of life's most significant moments with it. On a lazy Saturday afternoon, I love nothing more than throwing on an Erykah Badu CD, lying in bed and completely losing myself in her poetic songs.

Those of you who are familiar with the genre will need no introduction to Floetry, a duo who did some great things for UK Neo Soul in the early Noughties. Floetry, which comprised of Marsha Ambrosius and Natalie Stewart, was one of my favourite bands during my carefree university years, when I loved nothing more than discovering new upcoming artists. Their singles Getting Late and Say Yes did really well both sides of the Atlantic, and for those who aren't familiar with their work, I strongly recommend checking out their debut album, Floetic.

In 2007, Stewart (aka The Floacist) left the band to pursue her own solo ambitions. Now, we finally get to hear her debut single, which features the vocals of other Neo Soul legend, Musiq Soulchild. The song is called 'Forever,' and sees Stewart hum her poetic lines over a hip hop beat, a characteristic that was one of Floetry's trademarks. Stewart softly speaks over the track, professing to her lover that she will be there for him 'Forever', while Musiq Soulchild's vocals add the masculine dimension to the song. The track is soothing and uplifting, and has a nice, chilled out rhythm to it. It's completely sweet and comforting, just like a big slice of banoffee pie.

The Floacist's album is out later this year, and if this taster is anything to go by, I may have a serious new contender for my ultimate Saturday chill out album.

See - A photo that is worth a million laughs

In May this year, I was fortunate enough to visit the historic city of Damascus. Walking around what is claimed to be the oldest inhabited city in the world, you really feel the magic that is pulsating in the air.

It was during this visit that I took a picture that never fails to make me smile. While exploring the cramped, winding streets of the old city, I came across a young boy of around three years old. Upon seeing me, the youngster climbed on a cart, and assumed the position you see in the picture. Highly bemused and amused, I took some photos of the scene. The boy remained in this exact same position - head down, bum up high in the air - for a good few minutes. As I began to walk away, I noticed a man appear and hand the boy...sweets! He then came down from the cart and ran off.  Poor boy wanted payment for his efforts...

You can find out more about my trip to Damascus in the travel piece I wrote for Aquarius magazine here:  http://gulfnews.com/life-style/travel/destinations/dazzle-your-senses-in-damascus-1.656779

The beginning.

Welcome,

It is often advised that those who wish to start a blog should write on what they're most passionate and knowledgeable about. After a spot of soul searching, I realised that aside from the gorgeous actor Idris Elba, I take great pleasure from many things in life - namely the ones that delight my senses. Whether it be a mouthwatering Spaghetti Bolognese, a sunset that takes my breath away, or the smell of trodden down grass and stale beer at a music festival, I am a connoisseur of all things that make me feel 'alive.' I therefore decided that I would dedicate this blog to writing about anything that delights my senses, in the hope of inspiring great conversation, and perhaps encouraging my readers to try something new. Expect anything from food to drink, travel, literature, music, and many more.

This blog is dedicated to three simple things that bring great joy to my senses:

Incense, Red Wine and Soul Music.

Happy Reading.