Best Of The Month: July

This year is proving to be a great one for East African music as the region’s artists continue to put out exceptional projects.

Here’s what caught the editorial team’s attention in July:

Amani

Fave Project - Colors of Love by Elani

The East African powerhouse group is back with their sophomore album "Colors of Love." The album is simply a summer love story that you simply find yourself falling for. 

Beverly 

Fave Song - Just Because We Fight Doesn’t Mean We’re Broken by Tetu Shani 

Are you one of those who listen to music while you work and don’t get distracted by it? I used to think I was one of those people, but listening to this song by Tetu Shani has robbed me of that belief, even writing this is a struggle. The second single off his similarly-titled EP,  you can’t help but be drawn in by the guitar and Tetu’s voice. It’s like your body is being coaxed to sway and let the music wash over you. 

Fave Video - Mastingo by Kahu$h x Chris Kaiga

This song, this video, this duo, should I say more? Can I say more? All that comes to mind when I think of this video and this song is whoooooo, such good vibes. Someone on Twitter or in a YouTube comment somewhere said that Chris Kaiga has never made a bad song and him joining forces with Kahu$h confirms to me that they are both artists to watch and I can’t wait to witness their impact on the Kenyan music industry. 

Joy R.

Fave Song - Wera by Moseh Drummist and G-cho Pevu 

Wera (sheng for work) is a celebration of all the hustlers working hard in the city, from the green grocer to the matatu conductor cause “utapata unachotaka”. Moseh’s uplifting soprano is well balanced by G-cho Pevu’s baritone spitting the conscious rhymes. And the groovy guitars carry you along into a percussion performance by Moseh Drummist that will stay with you.

Fave Project - JBWFDMWB by Tetu Shani

After years of electrifying live performances in Nairobi, Tetu Shani has finally delivered his first full body of work. Just Because We Fight Doesn’t Mean We’re Broken, or JBWFDMWB if that’s a mouthful for you, is the best of alternative pop-rock from the alternative Kenyan musician. These soothing and honest tales feel like a warm snug on a cold July afternoon.

Joy O.

Fave Song - “Ndio” by Bey T

Bey T spares no time in rightfully showing off her cadence and skill within her new track “Ndio” where she addresses the adversity she has faced from her haters, who she refuses to pay any mind because “they got a lot to say [and she] got a lot to do”. Not only is the song upbeat, but it is also incredibly catchy and would definitely be a valuable addition to your gym playlists (as long as social distancing is applied).

Fave Video - “Mapema” by Matata

Matata burst onto the scene a couple months ago and have since solidified their place in the industry, by constantly incorporating stunning visuals and memorable lyrics in their music. This remains the case in their latest release “Mapema” that stays true to their vibrant brand leaving listeners and viewers in awe. If there’s anything Matata will do - it’s impress

Fave Project - ”Leave Me At The Pregame” by Maya Amolo

Despite this being her debut project, Maya Amolo’s genius and reputation precedes her and can be corroborated by previous projects she has put out. Her melancholic and equally sultry take on R&B is uniquely hers and is visible throughout this EP (LMATP) where she soulfully lays her heart out on each track, demanding our attention and breaking our hearts as she takes us on the journey that is love.

Lanzi

Fave Song - RONG by Natty

Nairobian, NATTY has crafted a distinct and authentic Kenyan drill sound. Other than his patterned Sheng bars, everything about his latest single RONG screams UK drill. The beat, the mob of young black boys donning track suits and ski masks and posturing at the camera. It somehow doesn’t come off as gimmicky. Unlike many rappers who’ve tried their hand at rhyming over a drill bea as it is the order of the day, NATTY and his GTA collective have remained faithful to the genre with each of their releases. This is his latest. 

Shishi

Fave Song - Lush Green by Maya Amolo

It's the African drums for me! Maya's voice carries the kicks and melodies of the song wholesomely well as she tells an encompassing story of love entering new territories. 

Fave Video - Potion by Hiribae & Ukweli ft. Xenia Manasseh 

There are so many scenes to love in this music video, I can't choose one. It's incredibly cinematic by way of emotion. Xenia objectively shows us how intoxicating love can feel, especially while yearning for your person when they're away. The moves and choreography tell this very well. Also, the colour grading is amazing! Definitely watch it more than once. 

Fave Project - Matako Bairidi by Nabiswa and Kerby

This project has been on repeat for me since its release early July. It's so rhythmic in how it takes you on a journey through nature and calm, while cultivating an appreciation for the divine.