Ibejii took a bold step by returning to Nigeria a few years ago to establish his musical career and reconnect to his roots. Since then, the artist has released four outstanding studio albums, including the recent one, ILÙ ILÚ, a nine track album that embodies the elements of his music –– afroretro, contemporary jazz, Yoruba folklore and Juju.
On his new alt-album, Ibejii proves that’s he’s much more than a humble folklorist by crafting epic soundscapes from a wide variety of instruments, building a different, vividly real atmosphere for each song. The issues and underlying message that each track bears cannot also be overlooked, most especially for listeners that can interpret the parables and are fluent in Yoruba language.
The first track, which is also named after the project ILÙ ILÚ carries the weight of a war song and some sort of uprising. ‘Odo to gbagbe orisun e l’on gbe‘, meaning ‘only a river that forgets its source gets dried up’. The song is very relatable and is a sonic reflection of what the world and humans in general are going through at the moment.
‘Orisa bi iya’ is a beautiful song that explores the love of a mother. Between the chords and rhythms, Ibejii calls on the creator and prays for his mother. He emphasises the old saying ‘that friends may betray one, but mothers stay loyal and never leave’. You can feel the intensity on this record and it is almost impossible to not connect and adore your mother as well.
‘Boda suraju‘ is the one for the unorthodox hustler anthem, what you’ll probably love to listen to on your way to the city with strong hopes for success. It chronicles the journey of a hardworking man who stay true to his calling and eventually makes it big, big enough to afford the houses in Lekki and banana island. ‘O de ro, iyanu ma self soonest‘ ––. the message here is patience and it is a most listen for every young person lost in a world full of challenges.
The entire album is an unrivalled production in the purest sense: wonderfully singable, memorably touching, and filled with messages and melodies by an uncannily talented Ibejii. ILÙ ILÚ is beautifully innovative, powerfully inspiring music being built on a bedrock of tradition by artists unafraid of bringing the tradition to very new places.
Listen to ILÙ ILÚ here.
