On The Ground I Walk by Hydeus Kiatta

07 Jul

Written by Donna Kimura
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Hydeus Kiatta is a San Francisco Bay Area-based singer and songwriter. Born and raised in the Monterey-Salinas region, she began performing at the age of three with her sister, accompanied by her father’s guitar playing. Through the years, she has been part of jazz combos, a cappella groups, big bands and assorted choirs.

The young singer has released her debut CD, "On the Ground I Walk," on Noir Records. The nine songs on the album are a blend of her jazz, world music and R&B. Kiatta has writing credits on all of the songs.

The CD kicks off with "Don’t Ask Me Why," a nice acoustic bass-driven jazz number. The next song, "Whisper," is a soulful ballad that showcases Kiatta’s robust voice. Kiatta soon delivers a little reggae beat on "Ground We Walk Upon." Then, there’s a Middle Eastern influence happening on "Hammam."

Although these different influences can be heard on the album, Kiatta's music has a contemporary sound.

Her lyrics often reflect a spiritual or social awareness. For example, on "Ground We Walk Upon," she sings, "Oh forgive us God/ We keep on doing wrong/Damaging the gifts of your creation/Respect the ground we walk upon."

The CD isn't your traditional jazz album, but it will likely appeal to listeners who enjoy a little variety. People who want to hear someone new and different should also take note.