Manchester and Berlin-based electronic duo Space Afrika has unveiled their latest single, titled ‘MLN’. This new track features the distinctive vocals of British-Nigerian artist Tony Njoku and marks a significant step in the duo’s evolving sound. ‘MLN’ is built upon a foundation of textured guitar work intertwined with orchestral strings, creating a rich and immersive sonic landscape. The single underscores the importance of collaboration in their creative process, with contributions from a diverse group of musicians. Gabriel Evans provides guitar and lead bass, London-based PIKE performs on drums, and Copenhagen’s GB (Gustav B) contributes on keys and strings.
Exploring Identity Through Collaboration
Joshua Tarelle Reid, one half of Space Afrika, explained the conceptual drive behind ‘MLN’ and their broader artistic direction. He stated that the project challenged their perceptions of identity, particularly concerning class and diaspora, and how these themes manifest across different musical genres. The choice of collaborators was deliberate, intended to reflect the core characteristics of their project. “We wanted to show the characteristics of our project through the people we chose to work with,” Reid commented.
His musical partner, Joshua Inyang, elaborated on the artistic philosophy guiding their work. Inyang emphasized their commitment to authenticity and emotional resonance, describing the music as “music from the heart.” He noted a deliberate evolution in their sound, moving towards a more refined, modern structure while retaining a raw essence. “It’s music that has a particular rawness to it, but we’ve articulated that in a more modern classic structure, there’s a much more critical pronunciation of techniques,” Inyang said. He further highlighted the strength found in collaborative efforts, stating, “It’s a collaborative record because there is always strength and love in collaboration. But with that, we were able to focus more strongly on our personal identity.”
A Shift Towards Cathartic Abstraction
‘MLN’ serves as a preview of Space Afrika’s forthcoming album, ‘Quiet Storm,’ scheduled for release on September 25th via Dais Records. This new single and the anticipated LP represent a departure from the duo’s previous work, which often explored industrial-noir aesthetics. For ‘Quiet Storm,’ Space Afrika is embedding their personal coming-of-age narratives within a suite of abstract, cathartic compositions. The music delves into themes of spirituality, the complexities of the human condition, and the interplay between strength and vulnerability, ambition and internal struggles.
The sonic evolution on ‘MLN’ showcases Space Afrika’s technical growth and deepening emotional expression. The track exhibits a natural, elevated synergy that permeates the forthcoming album. This shift suggests a move towards more introspective and emotionally resonant soundscapes, moving beyond the starker frameworks of their earlier material. The album promises a deeply personal journey, articulated through abstract musical forms that invite listeners to connect with universal human experiences.
Visual Accompaniment and Artistic Vision
Accompanying the release of ‘MLN’ is an experimental short film, approximately four minutes in length. The film was directed by Tony Helal and was shot at the historic Musikbrauerei in Berlin. This visual component further enhances the thematic exploration of the single, offering a complementary artistic interpretation of Space Afrika’s evolving sound and narrative focus. The film’s setting and experimental nature align with the duo’s ambition to push creative boundaries and explore new forms of artistic expression.
The collaboration with Tony Njoku on ‘MLN’ is a key element in this new chapter for Space Afrika. Njoku’s unique vocal style adds a layer of emotional depth and ethereal quality to the track, perfectly complementing the intricate instrumentation. His involvement highlights the duo’s commitment to working with artists who can bring a distinct perspective and contribute to the rich tapestry of their sound. The synergy between Njoku’s voice and Space Afrika’s production creates a compelling and memorable listening experience.
Thematic Depth of ‘Quiet Storm’
The forthcoming album, ‘Quiet Storm,’ is poised to be a significant work for Space Afrika, offering a more intimate and expansive exploration of their artistic vision. The thematic concerns—spirituality, the human condition, internal conflict, and personal identity—suggest an album that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. The tension between boldness and softness, ambition and inner demons, points to a nuanced portrayal of life’s complexities.
By moving away from industrial-noir and embracing cathartic abstraction, Space Afrika is signaling a maturation of their sound and a deeper engagement with personal narrative. The album is expected to resonate with listeners seeking music that is both sonically adventurous and thematically profound. The integration of their coming-of-age stories within this abstract framework promises a unique and powerful artistic statement. The release date of September 25th marks a highly anticipated moment for fans of experimental electronic music and those drawn to artists who explore the depths of human experience through sound.
Conclusion
‘MLN’ represents a compelling evolution for Space Afrika, showcasing their collaborative spirit and a refined artistic direction. The single, featuring Tony Njoku, offers a glimpse into the rich, abstract soundscapes of their upcoming album, ‘Quiet Storm.’ Through thoughtful collaboration and a commitment to exploring complex themes of identity and the human condition, Space Afrika continues to push the boundaries of electronic music, delivering work that is both technically sophisticated and emotionally resonant.
