The journey of a song often starts in a single moment, a sudden spark of inspiration. For Igimèjí's Kayla Scales and Oladipo Oyediran, that moment came in Kathmandu, Nepal, a world away from their Dallas and Fort Worth roots. It was there, in a small bar, that their first song was born, a moment that laid the groundwork for a sound as diverse and global as their own story. Now, with the release of their debut album, ‘It's Not A Race’, the band have shown that their unique blend of influences is anything but a sprint. It’s a marathon of soulful storytelling.
The album is, as the band themselves describe, "a true labour of love." You can feel that affection in every track, a blossoming fusion of jazz, R&B, hip-hop, ska, and pop that manages to avoid the pitfalls of being a jumbled mess, and instead, shines as deeply optimistic. It’s an album that feels like a caringly curated playlist of experiences, tackling everything from love and loss to the anxieties of the modern world.
The album's lead single, 'Better Things', is a perfect example. It's a funky, feel-good track with a serious message about today's political climate. The smooth guitar and saxophone work to create a laid-back, upbeat vibe, but the lyrics tell a different story—one of longing for peace and truth in a chaotic world.
While some bands might struggle to maintain a consistent identity across so many genres, Igimèjí weaves it all together with an authentic and cohesive voice. On the track 'Complacent', they artfully blend indie sounds and R&B stylings with a sophisticated elegance.
Elsewhere, ‘Personality Trait’ uses dreamy, tropical vibes to wrap the listener in smooth, soulful sounds, while 'Drew Barrymore' strips things back to gentle acoustics and a heartfelt vocal performance. The album closes with 'Let Go (Timing)', a funk-infused track that showcases the band's R&B sensibilities in full force, leaving you with a sense of hopeful, groovy release.
It’s an album that asks you to slow down, listen closely, and feel every moment, and in a world driven by algorithms, that's a refreshing message to hear. You can stream the full album today via Spotify, and for more, be sure to join Igimèjí on Facebook and Instagram.
