‘KANDA’ by GHEZO ††† — A Cultural Pulse You Can Feel

‘KANDA’ by the London-based artist GHEZO †††, is an EP that pulsates with a fusion of cultural pride and sonic innovation. Born from a marriage of African roots and European sophistication, this is more than just music; it’s a passport to a world where every beat, every word, every pause bridges continents. Crafted alongside the sound engineer 90’s, the release is a love letter to the continent’s rich tapestry of sounds and stories. We can feel its meticulous creation in every aspect, honed with care and precision yet never losing its raw authenticity to generic digital polish. Instead, each sound element and artistic choice wraps the music with an air of originality and exclusivity. Featuring four high-quality tracks, each one with its distinct character, ‘KANDA’ dares you to just lean in and listen. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Opener “KELELE” hits the ground running, teeming with raw and unapologetic energy. The beat is more than just sound; it’s an organism with multiple layers breathing under its surface, making it as organic as it is gritty. It immediately welcomes you with a distinctly African flavor yet one that’s not in-your-face and easy to digest. There’s a directness and an intimacy in the decision to keep it this way. “CASABLANCA” has been coined the jewel of the collection by many, and for good reason. The choice to use a sub-Saharan man chanting the names of the eponymous Moroccan city speaks louder than words. It’s a conscious move, a subtle yet powerful nod to every part of the continent that feels just right. “MINALE” is a bit mellower, though no less poignant. Smooth, like a moment of quiet contemplation, it hums with a soothing rhythm that nevertheless insists on taking us on a journey. The type of song that burrows deep inside your head and lingers on.

The closer, “SOLEIL”, is as warm as the name suggests. Slow, steady, and meditative, it wraps around you like the gentle embrace of a loving friend. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of hustle and bustle, there is hope, there is joy to be found in the most mundane of things. By the time it fades out, there is no denying that ‘KANDA’ is as short as it is sweet. GHEZO ††† never attempts to be overbearing or attention-grabbing. Instead, they let the music speak for itself. From start to finish, the record is genuine, painstakingly curated, and imbued with soul. It’s the type of music that makes you drop everything and just listen.

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