Review: ALEM WORLDWIDE's New EP "…AND THEY SAID IT COULDN’T BE DONE"

D.C. native, ALEM WORLDWIDE, finally graced us with their third EP, …AND THEY SAID IT COULDN’T BE DONE. It’s full of honesty, funky arrangements, and self love. The EP was produced touched mainly by DMV folks, featuring mastering by Ryan Plummer of Tosser and cosigns from Capitol Sound favorites like Babby, Pockets, Übrgrl, and WiFiGawd.

The project opens with “Proclamation, Pt. 1,” that features spoken word poetry, where they explore their sexuality and realizations attached to it and notes, “I see now what so many men have tried to steal from me.” The track is soothing, while tackling a complex topic. 

ALEM WORLDWIDE combines scatting, rapping, and beautiful harmonies on “Ntu Alen.” The visual takes us on a small adventure throughout Upstate New York with cuts to their friends dancing, calm moments on the beach, and her illustrations. It’s a great summer song to vibe out to.

While “Nevaland,” released as the single of the album, is a sexy and smooth R&B track with electronic influences. ALEM sings “Where are we? Somewhere where angels be,” backed by an effortless beat and takes us on a seductive adventure with a partner. 

“Proclamation, Pt. 2” is a soulful and relaxed track. It begins with ALEM hitting a beautiful high note as it transforms into an echoey chamber of emotion. The song relies on ALEM WORLDWIDE’s wide range of vocals as they sing “I will never be what you want me to be.” 

ALEM talks about self care and interpersonal dynamics on “Umoja.” The track is sprinkled with xylophone, trumpet, and a soft verse from Babby. It’s the most musically complex song on the EP and leads listeners effortlessly into the last song “Fo ‘Eva Love.” On the last song, ALEM raps and reminisces on a past relationship. 
…AND THEY SAID IT COULDN’T BE DONE takes listeners on a spiritually creative journey with ALEM WORLDWIDE and lets us into their world for a mer 15 minutes.