EGO+(Deluxe), 2023
Genre: Indie/Alternative
©2023 Kyabo
Reviewed: 24 December 2023
Upon hitting play on kyabo's deluxe album, EGO+, you're immediately immersed in a realm of bold sonic experimentation and unapologetic authenticity. Hailing from the vibrant city of Johannesburg, kyabo has skillfully crafted an album that fearlessly pushes the boundaries of SA alternative music.
The record serves as a showcase in skillful genre-blending, effortlessly merging indie, alternative, and club music with a touch of lively funk. kyabo's musical landscape becomes a playground of varied influences, and they maneuvers through them with unmatched confidence and swagger.
The title "EGO" for the album suggests a focus on the self, specifically the individual's sense of identity, self-perception, and the complexities that arise from internal struggles. The themes of love, self-awareness, inner conflict, and the challenges of authenticity align with the concept of the ego—the part of the mind that mediates between one's inner thoughts and the external world.
The title serves as a thematic umbrella, capturing the overarching exploration of the artist's ego and how it influences their experiences, relationships, and the broader context of navigating the world.
What distinguishes EGO+ from the abundance of new music saturating the airwaves is its compelling storytelling and flawless songwriting. The lyrics are carefully crafted and introspective, delving into the intricacies of self-awareness, internal conflicts, and the challenges of presenting an authentic self to the world. kyabo fearlessly explores poignant moments of grappling with inner turmoil and the inevitability of departure, turning the album into a profoundly personal and introspective journey.
The album's cohesion and sequencing are nearly flawless, playing a crucial role in enhancing the themes and significance behind the album's title. Each track effortlessly transitions into the next, creating a mesmerizing and immersive listening experience that commands your complete attention.
kyabo employs live instruments to infuse the album with an authentic and unplugged ambiance, contributing a sense of sincerity and intimacy to the sonic atmosphere. Although it might require time to fully grasp and value the album's depth, the ultimate outcome is an undeniably lively and dynamic experience.
The deluxe edition of EGO+ includes 6 additional tracks, bringing the total to 16 songs with a duration of 45 minutes, leaving listeners eager for more of kyabo's musical expertise.
In the initial track, "UNCLE'S INTRO," the incorporation of indie percussionist UNCLE establishes a rhythmic landscape that becomes the core of the entire album. UNCLE's intricate beats form a robust foundation, setting the tone for the unfolding sonic journey.
As the album advances, the impact of featured artists becomes more pronounced. In "BRAGGADOCIO," the enchanting vocals of FELE and the smooth flows of Wolffisdead seamlessly interlace with kyabo's distinctive sound, creating a captivating synergy. This collaboration not only enriches the track but also highlights the artist's versatility in embracing diverse styles.
In the track "SUPERSTAR," the collaboration between Shoka Sunflower and UNCLE stands out as a highlight on the album. Shoka's celestial vocals seamlessly blend with UNCLE's sharp verses, offering a poignant portrayal of grappling with internal struggles. The song constructs a soundscape that reflects the fragmented nature of self-reflection.
Fentse. makes a return on "JUMPER," contributing to a song that delves into allowing oneself, or in this case, the love interest, to be loved and attracting the right people into your life. Fentse.'s emotive performance adds a touch of nostalgia to the lyrics, crafting a bittersweet symphony that resonates with themes of love and manifesting the right connections. This collaboration marks their second after the lively and captivating song "NINTENDO ," featured on Fentse's 'Therapy Is Cancelled'
The concluding track, "NOCTURNE," embodies the combined influence of the featured artists. Kyabo contributes a melodic richness that threads through the entire composition, forming a tapestry of sound with a lasting impact. In this beautiful ending to the album, kyabo's presence is felt over a piano, skillfully strumming chords with intricate precision, creating a harmonious conclusion to the overall album experience.
Within "EGO," the featured artists—Fentse., Wolffisdead, Shoka Sunflower, Brendon Tayler, UNCLE, and FELE —emerge not just as collaborators but as essential storytellers in kyabo's tale of love and self-discovery. Each song reveals a distinct aspect of the album's overarching themes, transforming "EGO" into a collaborative masterpiece that adeptly weaves together the intricacies of individuality and the human experience.
The expanded version of the latest album, "EGO+," emerges as a musical treasure, enriching the overall listening experience with the inclusion of six meticulously selected tracks. These additional songs seamlessly integrate with the original lineup, offering a more detailed exploration of the artist's creative vision. Standout tracks such as "999" (featuring Wolffisdead and FELE ), "SMOKE," and "MAGNIFIQUE" introduce captivating rhythms, while the concluding ballads, including "DON'T GO," "WINGS+ (featuring Sonder the Africanime)," and "SAD SOLO," provide profound introspection. This deluxe edition not only extends the album's duration but also enhances cohesion and depth, establishing a deeper connection to the artist's journey. The thoughtful expansion elevates an already exceptional album into a fully immersive sonic experience, appealing to both devoted fans and new listeners alike. The album's overall ambiance is likely to be introspective, emotionally charged, and reflective of the intricate nature of human identity. Get ready to be captivated, challenged, and ultimately moved by the sonic journey that is EGO+.
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