Fresh off an inaugural tour, rising singer-songwriter Idman has delivered their biggest project to date: their debut EP, Risk, out this past Friday. An energizing blend of hip-hop, alt-R&B, and Idman’s signature silky pop sound, Risk is the perfect introduction to the Somali-Canadian artist’s impressive body of work. Fan-favorite singles “Good Life,” “Hate,” and “Still” join loop-worthy new tracks like “Beach,” which is accompanied by a riveting lyric video released in tandem with the EP.

Risk demonstrates Idman’s prowess as a songwriter, the project serves as a testament to their innate ability to translate emotions and experiences into vulnerable lyrics that resonate on a universal level. In “Hate,” the singer narrates the internal conflict of wanting to reach out to an ex but fighting to resist the temptation. Wrestling with mixed feelings, they plead, “when I see your number/ Don’t let it take me under.” “Wish it was what it was,” they continue on the sparkly track “In My Feels,” which channels an old-school R&B glamour while interrogating the difficulty of moving on. As a whole, the EP sees Idman examining the risks they’ve taken—in their artistry, in love, and in life—while staying honest about the consequences as well as the rewards.

“I feel honored to introduce myself through this body of work—it unfolded in the perfect way, and it’s truer than I could have imagined. I am figuring out whether the risks I have taken have been worthwhile, and I feel no shame in sharing what I have discovered, for better or worse,” they share.

Luckily for us, Idman chose to take the risk to pursue music. Taking cues from their Somali heritage and their affinity for pop music, the Toronto native has become a voice for anyone who’s ever felt caught between worlds. Their storytelling extends beyond their personal experiences, tapping into social activism to craft a narrative that’s sure to sit with the listener well after the tracklist ends. It’s no wonder they were named one of Amazon’s Breakthrough Artists of 2023.

Risk cements Idman as one of the most versatile artists of our time, seamlessly slipping between genres and moods to create a well-rounded sonic experience. Through it all, there is never a hint of manufactured sound or forced feeling. Idman is the genuine article—making Risk an irresistibly authentic debut.

Special Thanks: Arista Records, Humbert Luna, Nadia Ali