By Aisling Thompson
While Dena Anuk$a is no stranger to the local music scene, between a residency at Funkarama and involvement with the Gxrlcode collective, her solo offerings have catapulted this artist to the forefront of an emerging neo soul, R&B scene in Northern Ireland.
With her newest single, “Shine”, Dena delivers the lyrics with an unswerving defiance that emphasises the fact that she is not here to blend in - far from it. Technically the song packs a punch while remaining quite restrained instrumentally. The piano hook drives the undercurrent of the song while the synth creates a more hazy, dreamy atmosphere, strengthening the determination in her lyrics. This track particularly delivers an unmistakable nod to the best parts of the 90s retro vibe, fitting in with the styles of Lauren Hill and more recently, Noname. The video which accompanies the single is a delightful throwback of neon, cowprint and a fish eye lense creating a nostalgic yet contemporary aesthetic.
Dena Anuk$a is the forerunner of an exciting movement within the local scene the likes of which Belfast and beyond haven't yet seen but won't be able to ignore. She's “Started from the bottom to the highest heights”, and she'll reach them.
