As a tribute to his Nigerian roots, London-based singer-songwriter NIJI releases Oríkì, a nine-track album that blends Afrobeat, jazz, and funk while telling the story of his great-grandmother, Matilda Taiwo (Mata). This deeply personal and original project promises to captivate listeners with its rich storytelling and vibrant sound.
NIJI shares, “‘Oríkì’ displays my beautifully rich and vibrant Yorùbá heritage. An Oríkì in Yorùbá culture tells of the history and the stories of a family. ‘Oríkì’ is my musical praise report, where the past meets the present, and paints the future”
The journey begins with Àdùnní, a stunning fusion of piano, percussion, and wind instruments, perhaps the most jazz-infused piece in this remarkable collection. Sounds of the City, featuring Moses Boyd, follows with an irresistible groove, where the piano takes center stage, subtly intertwined with Afrobeat for a track that is pure sonic delight.
Meanwhile, Jayé (Dance Dance Dance) featuring Afronaut Zu lives up to its name, inviting listeners to move with an upbeat rhythm. Here, vocals emerge as additional instruments, elevating the track into a refined interpretation of African soundscapes.
The album momentarily slows down with Mo ti délé, only to pick up the pace again with A13 FUJI and Oba (Drum Break)—high-energy tracks that make it impossible to stay still. The momentum continues with Mata, a heartfelt tribute to his great-grandmother, and the title track Oríkì, featuring Adésayo.
The journey concludes with Joshua’s Legacy, bringing the piano back to the forefront. Paired with soft percussion and ambient nature sounds, this final track gently restores a sense of calm, closing the album on a high note.
NIJI has built a solid career in contemporary music, seamlessly blending his classical training with influences ranging from jazz and hip-hop to Afrobeat and gospel. His ability to fuse these styles has led to collaborations with renowned artists like Harry Styles, Gregory Porter, and Stormzy, while also establishing his solo career with albums that have been well-received by both audiences and critics.
Since his debut with Better Days Ahead (2015), NIJI has continually evolved, experimenting with new sounds while staying true to his artistic identity. With Oríkì, he not only honors his heritage but also cements his place as an artist who connects deeply with his audience through personal and evocative storytelling. His work continues to push boundaries, positioning him as a distinctive voice in today’s music scene.
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