Azekel - Azekel Unreleased
By Christianah Jesudass-Roberts (@mstiaroberts)
RELEASE DATE: JUNE 12, 2020
RELEASE DATE: JUNE 12, 2020
Recently as the ease of lockdown has spun us into a more active existence and the restful manner of the last couple months starts to become more distant, I find the peacefulness of the night reassuring. Of course due to this stillness, it the perfect time for me to listen to new releases that have strolled onto my mental radar. This week, I came across an immersive project called Azekel Unreleased by London based musician Azekel.
Immersive is the best word to encapsulate the feel of this EP, written, produced and performed by the Nigerian born, British based artist. Futuristic in its sound, there is a soulful depth that takes listeners along a musical journey of velvety emotion and expression. His sound has a light eclectic feel rooted in tender, bassy moments. The tracks are highlighted by a soulful core, wrapped in romantic & honest acoustic vocals. His voice conjoins a very particular balance of wispy, crystal clear echos with the profound grounding tones which transforms into therapeutic listening throughout the whole EP.
This is Azekel’s first release following his 2018 Our Father, album and showcases a completely different space of growth and emotion. Whilst Our Father displayed a lighter, upbeat-soulful sound, encapsulated by bouncy themes of love & momentous joy, Azekel Unreleased expresses the duality of Azekel’s artistry, with beautiful notes of romantic melancholy that remains equally as fulfilling.
My personal favourite on this year’s project has to be Thrills, due to it’s smooth alluring sound. Complimented by Oyinda’s delicate, fluid vocals, this collaboration is coated in a smoothness that not only welcomes the listener but draws you into the project. The EP as a whole has a cushiony feel rooted in the harsh cries of a solid reality. It is thoroughly relatable but remains romantic, pleasurable and easy to listen to. Azekel Unreleased is out now on all streaming platforms.