EP Review: Sazile
Kato Change, Winyo & SURAJ are no strangers to the Kenyan music scene, with each of them fore-fronting their own unique sounds while representing East Africa to a global audience. They have come together to create an inspiring body of work called “Sazile EP” inspired and worked on in Kenya.
For the most part, the 5 track EP is sung in Kijaluo and adorned with a little bit of Kiswahili. Although I do not understand all the words expressed by Winyo, my slight research adheres me to the conclusion (after listening to the EP about 7 times too), that it is a tale about both love and freedom.
The first song that shares the name of the EP is a moody and sultry tune. The word Sazile, translates to “Those Times”, giving us that nostalgic feel as Winyo remains hopeful that his love will come back to him. Throughout the EP his vocals are given the space to shine through our headphones and speakers. SURAJ maintains his signature kick and bass drums while Kato’s subtle guitar runs prove to be intricately effective through and through. The music they make together sounds like the satisfying moment of completing an abstract puzzle.
‘Oriti' is my personal favourite out of the 5, but ‘Nyoro’ which was released as the first single in late November, debuted at No. 1 on Apple Music Kenya Charts, Editorial playlists and many more after its release, proving that beautiful music was headed our way. The tempo from the first track to the last builds as other parts in intensity. I wonder if any music videos or visualisers for any of the songs are in the works because ‘Neuru’ is very deserving of one. It’s the most upbeat of the 5 songs and immediately gets you on your feet. It’s the type of song you can create a dance to. Can someone please do that for us?
All in all, Sazile is a warm feel good EP that warrants an evening drive, a sunset/sunrise, a nature trail, a beach view and a solid dance floor.
You can stream the whole project here.
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