For Clarity Stream ‘Salt & Water’
For the past five years, the Kenyan music industry has experienced a shift. From the music churned out, to the listeners the scene has seen an upward trajectory in terms of consumership, packaging and the sound itself. What started out seven years ago as a plea for more Kenyans to listen to local music backed with #PlayKe has now morphed birthing several genres and artists who are more experimental than ever and alternative R&B is taking the lead.
The Kenyan music scene is often characterized as fast paced, trendy and nostalgic often bringing key elements of our forefathers especially in production. The alternative R&B scene has been keen on this aspect making it one of the most consumed genres by Gen Z—in fact I might point out it is more popular than hip-hop at the moment. Thus when famed songwriter cum singer Ochiko announced his sophomore EP ‘Salt And Water’, his fans were more than eager.
Ochiko’s journey as an artist began less than five years ago with the release of “Twende”. in 2021. The vibrant and infectious track that showcases his unique blend of traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds. The light. guitar plucking that is accompanied by the peaceful saxophone form a perfect backdrop against the percussions and his pristine voice. The song revolves around love and dedication, resonating with listeners who appreciate heartfelt expressions in music. The lyrics invite listeners to embrace life and love “mark your dates, pack be safe, I am coming for you” , encouraging a sense of togetherness and enjoyment. This message is particularly impactful in the context of community and cultural celebration. Indeed his stint as a songwriter, having written for Tanasha Dona, Shirko Media and more, served as a foundation for his performing artist career.
In 2022 he released his debut piece of work which also served as an EP dubbed ‘Wuodh Hera,’ which translates to journey of love. The four track project focused on various. themes revolving around love including yearning for a lover as seen on the guitar infused “Nitapona,” that almost teleports you to a rebel themed 80s party. While also showing Ochiko’s. experimental side on “Simp” as his voice glazed over an Amapiano diffused production.
Ochiko’s growth as an artist is indisputable and his. keen. spirit on collaboration can be seen through out his career. especially in his debut album ‘The Footprint,’ which dropped in 2023. With a handful of collaborators including Modest Chabari, Israel Onyach, Ethan Mziki and more, Ochiko delivered a sterling, compact introduction into his mind and depiction of emotions on identity and personal experiences as he sings “they’ll only believe in your dream when it’s too late.” In. terms of production ‘The Footprint’ reflects Ochiko's signature blend of Kenyan R&B and pop, infused with traditional African sounds. The album's production is vibrant and engaging, characterized by rhythmic beats and melodic hooks such as “Songa” and fan favourite “Yeyo” that invite listeners to immerse themselves in the music.
Last week, we had the pleasure of being graced with Ochiko’s second EP dubbed ‘Salt & Water.’ Once again a four track EP with assistance from songbirds Njerae, Stacy Kamatu and Fancy Fingers. “Ochikore” featuring the latter served as the lead single and it sure enough set the pace for the project as a whole. “I wanted to make a statement. That I am here to stay and I am not going anywhere.” Ochiko spoke about releasing the song earlier than the rest.
‘Salt & Water,’ has received raging success from both fans and critics. With an array of producers from Kobby Worldwide, Fancy Fingers and Ochiko himself, the EP takes a serene direction much contrary to the title of the project. In the Bible, Jesus referred to his disciples as the salt of the earth, in culinary we know salt is the most important additive and scientifically water sustains human life. Thus the project serves situations that are balanced just as salt and water is balanced give off a saline solution.
The EP features a collection of tracks that are described as eargasmic such as “Nita” and “Naenjoy” which are characterised by soulful guitar strings , showcasing Ochiko's smooth vocal delivery and heartfelt lyrics as he sings “Sitangoja tena, moyo imesema kuwa ni wewe, sitachoka tena moyo umesema kuwa ni wewe,” in “I Choose You.” Each song is crafted to evoke strong emotions, making it an ideal soundtrack for moments when you need clarity and assurance. The fusion of traditional African rhythms with contemporary melodies add an extra gist. His compositions include addictive guitar voicings that bring life to his music,creating an engaging listening experience. Drawing inspiration from various genres, including soul and benga, he crafts songs that not only entertain but also tell compelling stories about love and life.
“SALT & WATER because you will find rest na UENJOY life every chance you get, UTA-PENDA cautiously but still very selflessly and YOU’LL CHOOSE those that give you life and what makes you feel alive and that we will unapologetically live to the very fullest ”
“Ochikore,” remains a contender as my favourite song in the project. Perhaps its due to its cheeky lyrics “kama umeiba mrembo wa wenyewe chunga usipatikane,ukikula mume wa wenyewe chunga usipatikane, kula urudishe” or the upbeat production but it is undeniable the project reflects his growth as a musician since his debut EP, Wuodh Hera, and highlights his ability to weave personal experiences into relatable narratives. A special shout out to his BGS or as we would have called them in hiphop ,”Ad-Libs”: Zawadi Mukami, Clark Keeng and We Are Nubia.
Just as the spiritual definition of salt is preservation, ‘Salt & Water’ is an ode to preservation of love. As you wait and yearn for love on a cold night that ironically carries humid hot air.
Stream ‘Salt & Water’ here
