International pop star, Choose Love ambassador and Iranian refugee SHAB is back – and better than ever – with the incredible new album, ‘ONE SUITCASE.’
Based on her personal journey as a refugee who fled the Iranian revolution as a young girl – to a full-time musician – this album perfectly captures SHAB’s reinvention, newfound freedom, and celebration of womanhood. Ultimately, it’s the resilience that led her here, encouraging listeners to persevere despite how difficult their situation is.
‘ONE SUITCASE’ explores a range of themes and influences, solidifying SHAB’s global appeal with its vibrant world-pop sound. There’s shades of Middle-Eastern influences in the brooding opener ‘ALCHEMY’ and the illustrious ‘EXOTICA’, whilst evocative hits such as ‘SANTA MARIA’ and ‘DIRTY’ delve into various groove-worthy flavours, from Latin to hints of European pop.
SHAB’s inspiring tale is interwoven through the album’s core, yet there are plenty of overarching lyrical themes to explore. From the euphoria of seeking purpose in ‘EUPHORIC STATE OF MIND’ to the thrill of new romantic connections in hit single ‘AFTERGLOW,’ this is an album centred around her freedom to embrace her femininity – and dance the night away in the process.
‘ONE SUITCASE’ additionally evokes SHAB’s advocacy for women’s rights in her homecountry, Iran. Fighting for their freedom in what she has labelled ‘a gangster regime,’ her personal experience in the fundamentalist revolution resonates with the ongoing issues today. This is highlighted by powerful tracks such as ‘ALCHEMY’ and ‘WOMAN,’ which call for female empowerment as well as the importance of self-confidence.
Bringing the album to a close is title track ‘ONE SUITCASE,’ a musical embodiment of SHAB’s experience arriving in America alone. On the album cover, she recreates this pivotal moment – stood in an airport, with a single-carried suitcase that maintain all her belongings. The track, which stands out with its striking melodies and driving rythmns, powerfully and atmospherically brings this moment to life. It makes for the perfectly poignant finale for an unforgettable collection of songs.
If you should have any album on your radar, let it be SHAB’s incredible ‘ONE SUITCASE’. LISTEN NOW: