From Biafra, Nigeria/Texas, USA
For fans of Los Thuthanaka, Jpegmafia, and DJ Sabrina the Teenage DJ, the latest album, Cantu of the Sower, has been launched by NTS Recordings on October 7.
While some may view the chaotic noise, rapid genre shifts, and fast-paced rhythms as overwhelming, others may embrace this sensory overload as a path to profound relaxation. The latest offering from the prolific artist Heavensouls delivers just that; the six tracks on Cantu of the Sower shimmer like precious gems, transitioning from arcade-inspired glimmers to deep, resonant bass, playful melodies to vibrant brass. The smooth trumpet melodies intertwine with gritty sounds, while sweet breakbeats soar to exhilarating heights. Personally, I find it captivating.
This music transcends mere randomness; it embodies a sense of wonder and abundance, enriched by snippets of real-life conversations that reflect the artist’s genuine compassion for humanity. A poignant sample from civil rights leader Stokely Carmichael encapsulates the ethos of 20-year-old Chidi Obialo: “I want my liberation more than I want anything else.” This sentiment resonates as the intricate hand percussion reminiscent of Fela Kuti is swept away by an overwhelming wave of guitar sound.
Obialo, who spent his early years in Nigeria before relocating to the United States at the age of seven, began creating a diverse array of music in his teenage years, aiming to construct an immersive experience for listeners. For those who appreciate a more eccentric approach, his collaboration with Atlanta-based Stickerbush, known as Sidepeices, offers a quirky and glitchy sound. Notably, Obialo often sports a Captain Beefheart shirt, highlighting his eclectic influences. In contrast, his recent work, Westside Trapped, serves as a heartfelt tribute to Nigeria and aligns more closely with the lush spirituals of Sault. With 15 releases already under his belt in a short span, Obialo’s ability to create mesmerizing, mind-bending music is undeniable, regardless of the style he adopts. – Laura Snapes
Mei Semones – Howl
Despite facing unrequited love, the Japanese-American jazz-pop artist expresses a determination to keep pursuing love, stating she would “rather chase ’til I die and so / I’ll never have to learn to be still.” This sentiment is beautifully conveyed through her enchanting blend of bossa nova guitar and strings. – LS
Angèle – Love Triangle (featuring Caroline Polachek and SebastiAn)
An electrifying electroclash beat by SebastiAn intensifies the drama in this tale of a love triangle, where two talented pop artists compete for the affections of the same person, each vying to leave with their heart intact. – BBT
Romy Mars – The Rage
In this mesmerizing slow jam, Mars cleverly taunts an ex, asking, “Now you’re in film school studying movies / When they talk about my family do you lose sleep?” A nod to her famous lineage, as her mother is Sofia Coppola and her grandfather is Francis Ford. – LS
Madra Salach – Ribbon Factory
This haunting track by an Irish folk band is filled with tension and pain, evolving into a gothic nightmare that resonates with audiences, earning them acclaim through passionate live performances. – BBT
Blackhaine – Consumer
After infusing rage rap with an intense atmospheric quality and performing impactful choreography with Playboi Carti, the north-western rapper and dancer has announced his debut album with this orchestral and intricately syncopated track. – BBT
Ryley Walker – Carrier
The Illinois guitarist joins the trendy label AD93, delivering a gritty, distortion-heavy sound that evokes comparisons to fellow artist William Tyler’s Time Indefinite and the shimmering noise of Sunn O))). – LS
Hodge – Moments of Joy
Filled with uplifting synth melodies and intricate bird-like sounds, this track from the Bristol producer’s new album, Big Splash, may inspire thoughts of rushing to Ibiza’s closing parties. – BBT
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