HIRIE - Phases (Controlled Substance Sound Labs/Easy Star Records)

Over the past few years, HIRIE has battled alcohol addiction, welcomed a daughter, and moved back to Hawaii.

All of that finds its way onto 'Phases', like in 'All Is OK', essentially the album's title track and a duet with The Movement, in which she sings:





I go my own way now
I'm making my soul proud
I fly with the rain
And all is okay
I give thanks and praises
For all of my phases
I give it away
And all is okay

On the introspective 'Days Like These', HIRIE turns inward once more:

How you doin'?
It's been a while
Since I could face you, my inner child
Lovely to see you smile
I know it′s been a little wild
I'm sorry that I made you wait
And all the years I threw away
You were really there the whole time
Even when I lost my mind

For 'Phases', HIRIE once again teamed up with producer Danny Kalb: "Danny and I have a special, symbiotic relationship in the studio. We understand each other so well. I can anticipate his next move, as he does mine, which allows us to flow creatively and get things done efficiently."

The album opens with the infectious 'Elevation', a song about spiritual growth and self-development. The pop-leaning love tune 'I Am Your Vibe' strongly recalls No Doubt, while 'Hold On Me' delivers even more romantic vibes.

The touching 'Guiding Star', featuring the line: "I'm not ready for you to grow up. I'm afraid of letting go.", was written as an ode to HIRIE's eldest daughter, while 'Only One' serves the same purpose for her husband.

The track list is packed with duets as well, including the cheerful 'Messing Around' with Cas Haley, 'For Me And You' with Mike Love, and the excellent 'Youniverse' featuring Arise Roots.

About the latter, HIRIE explains: "'Youniverse' is an all-encompassing piece that marries the past, present, and future into one. Energy is never lost; your ancestry, your purpose, and the purpose of those who came before you encircle the universe indefinitely. Therefore, 'Youniverse' conveys a message to those who recognize they are here, not by chance, but by master design. Stay firm, rooted, and move forward, knowing that you were brought into the 'Youniverse' with intention."

Our personal standout, though, is the slow ganja tune 'I'm High', a duet with our favourite Hawaiian, Inna Vision.

Tippy I closes the album with dub versions of opener 'Elevation' and 'I'm High', adding a nice extra touch.

Excellent American pop-reggae production!