To most of you Devi Reed will still be unknown, but if we add the singer is also the front man of French band The Banyans, for some people this may ring a bell. With this 'Essence Of Life' EP, the singjay of Dutch-Italian descent now also presents his solo debut. The track list is a subtle blend of hip-hop ('L'innocence/Youth Was Mine', with a nice jazzy contribution by Myasara), reggae ('Creation' over the riddim of Fred Locks & Creation Steppers' 'Homeward Bound') and soul, with Reed smoothly alternating between French and English. On this seven track EP, Devi proves he has an excellent flow, with 'Red Line' and title track 'Essence Of Life' as verbal highlights. Excellent calling card!