Now and then, a new artist drops something so refreshing that it makes you stop everything and just listen. That’s exactly what happened when I pressed play on Q Maasta’s debut project, SACRED.
I’ll be honest, when my industry friend Thato (a PR guru herself) first sent me the link, I thought, “Ah, she’s just pushing her client.” But after giving it a proper listen, four days later, I’m still locked in. SACRED is good, honest, soulful, and effortlessly put together.
The project runs across eight tracks with only two features, yet it feels complete and deeply intentional. The opener, “Narration by Noel,” sets the tone like a late-night poetry session deep in nature, calming, intimate, and beautifully narrated. Then comes “Daily Mantra,” where J delivers one of the most affirming verses you’ll hear this year: “Yeah I woke up feeling grateful, I went to sleep with a tummy full, my heart is full and I can do with a different view…” — featuring Jae the Lyoness, who brings lyrical depth that perfectly complements Q’s powerful vocals.
“Waiting 4 U” slows things down and captures that nostalgic, in-love feeling, the kind that makes you blush and smile alone. Tracks like “Amathuba” and “Down the City” also stand out, showing her range and ability to switch between vulnerability and confidence with ease.
Overall, SACRED is a stunning introduction to an artist who clearly knows who she is and what she wants to say. I’m giving it a solid 7/10 — and trust me, this is just the beginning for Q Maasta.