We had the distinct privilege to sit down with Alistair Noah, a talented and zealous young man with an insatiable love for art, and a heart that yearns after God's own - a modern-day David - a true embodiment of an Urban Psalmist.
Let's get to know a little more about the man before we get into the art.
1. I'm sure people are asking who you are. Introduce yourself to our readers.
I am Alistair Noah. I am from Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa. I am currently residing in Cape Town, South Africa.
I am a part-time music teacher but a full-time Christian Artist and Musician.
2. I'm sure you didn't just stumble into music. There must be a story behind what we see today. How did it come to be?
I always loved music from a young age. My mother was a worship leader and spiritual dancer at church and my brothers loved hip hop. They were my first inspirations. I wrote my first song at 8, I picked up my first instrument at 12 and I made my first beat at 12.
3. Seems like our 7 & 8-year-old selves lay the foundation of who we become. Tell us a little bit more about your work. How many projects have you released, and how many are waiting in the wings?
I have currently 1 project on All streaming platforms and 1 on SoundCloud and YouTube exclusively. There are always songs and Ideas that are waiting for the right time to spread their wings.
4. Let's talk about your artistic journey so far. What has been a highlight for you?
Artistically, my highlight has been the making of 'All I Was'. It was really a beautiful process of growth and free creation and I feel like it can be heard throughout the project.
5. How would you describe the art scene where you're at currently?
It's vibrant here in Cape Town! The art is always reaching new horizons and the artists are full of passion. I am part of a collective of Cape Town's brightest Christian artists and they are always on the go! Ready for any event to display their art and tell their story.
6. How do you deal with everyday distractions?
I welcome distractions and choose to rest in those times, 'cause being an independent artist can be overwhelming and there are obsessive behaviors one needs to be aware of.
7. Tell us a bit more about your latest offering, "ALL I WAS". What inspired it?
"All I Was" is a testimonial piece of art, intending to encourage self-awareness in regards to all the "...seeds of lies sown in youth." (Wild Thoughts explains the benefits of breaking free from those chains through the means I chose. It was inspired by a time I had a breakdown during a missions trip in Citrusdal, Western Cape, South Africa. I encountered the love of God in an overwhelming way that challenged my thoughts towards myself and others so much so, I felt led to paint this story through the tunes.
8. Moving on from this point, what plans do you have for your music?
I plan to do more shows, I already have one coming up on the 25th of January, Thursday, 6:30pm at the Gangstar Café in Mowbray, Cape Town, South Africa. I too, want to release more singles here and there on TikTok, FM radio and on all streaming platforms.
9. What advice, if any, would you give to artists looking to come into the industry?
Don't give up cause things aren't happening as fast as you'd like. Things that are worth it take time, be patient with yourself, and love yourself and others enough to not compare. "...Chasing Big breaks will leave you broken..." (Broken X Blessed)
Thanks for taking the time to sit down with us for our first edition of the 'Silent P Blog'. We wish you the best in your future endeavors. With anticipation, we wait for what you're going to do next. Any last words you'd like to leave with our readers?
Come out and meet me in person on the 25th of January in Mowbray, Cape Town. I'd love to share more of my journey and hear yours. Shout Out to the 053 for making me... We taking the Y to the World ❤
Album Review
Artist: Alistair Noah
Album: All I Was
Genre: Christian Rap/Hip-Hop
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Upon first listening, I was immediately enraptured by the production. It was unlike anything I had heard in a long time. The more I listened the more it started to resonate with my spirit. “ALL I WAS” is a project born out of deep introspection and honest reflection and contemplation that can be heard in lines like: ‘No matter how many messages of love that I got, I based my value in plays, I based my value in clout’ from the opening song, HALLELUJAH.
Alistair goes on to speak more about his internal struggles and how his faith in Jesus helped him gain victory over the seemingly insurmountable battles he has had to face. The song 'Broken X Blessed' paints a magnificent picture of this. We live in a broken world as broken people and we need to muster up all the optimism we can to still say ‘I am broken but blessed’.
I find ‘All He Did’ to be the most mesmerizing track on the EP. That portion of the song with the female clip had me feeling like I was descending into a trance-like state. I was drawn in like an insect into a trapdoor spider’s snare and just as I was about to fall, I find myself in the Amazonian Jungle again as the song transitions back to the original beat. Wow! What a trip it was!
‘All Is Not Lost’ has to be one of the most poignant and eloquently penned songs on this project. Giving hope to a world that is desperately seeking relief in the midst of experiencing unspeakable suffering. I hope this song brings you some peace as you listen to the testimony.
With the rise in social media activities, we tend to get caught up in a world of make-believe and forget to nurture real relationships, we are reminded and encouraged to “take time to learn the Father,’ because ‘There Is More’ to be found in Lord.
I cannot think of a better way to end this project than having your mother’s blessing on record. The topic of purpose is addressed in the title track, coming to the realization that ‘All I Was’ and all I am, was made to glorify God ultimately.
Sonically, the project is soothing. All the natural elements mixed in with masterfully composed synthetic sounds, gives the project a leg up on what is popular today. It is rich in content; it is truly an inspired art piece. It is not necessarily a ‘bar-heavy’ project, but you do need to listen out for those witty one-liners laced throughout.
‘Wild Thoughts’ is my personal favorite track on the project. Apart from the undeniably relatable content, I feel it is the one song on the EP that speaks to the poet in me with regards to the verse structure, metaphors, wordplay, and the beat is absolutely insane! Creatively, it is the best song on the project. Go listen and let’s engage.
It is always exciting when an artist takes an experimental approach. Alistair has managed to successfully blend various elements to create this unique listening experience. He’s got great potential and I cannot wait to see what he does next. And until then, follow him on all social platforms.
What’s your favorite track on Alistair Noah’s ‘ALL I WAS’ EP?
Leave a comment below and let us know what you thought of 'ALL I WAS' by Alistair Noah.
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