I know I've been M.I.A. in terms of my blogs. Summer was busy and school is even busier but I promise I'm making more time for delivering precious music to you.
Anyway, what better way to return than with a bang? or rather a KAPOW in the form of KAMAU. Okay that may have been a little cheesy but if you listened to his song "Gaims" you might get the reference ( hint* hint* go listen). This musician is a man after my own heart. He has a gift for interpretation with popular covers such as "Hey ya" and " Hometown Glory". He manipulates the structure of a song with such finesse, breaking the boundaries of conventional composition and rhythm. As well as this he has the ability to merge genres into one skillfully, with clear influences from hip hop and classical music as well as traditional African/Carribean music most noteably seen in songs such as "Jusfayu" from his EP "A Gorgeous Fortune".
Not only does he create music he also has a good eye for visuals/film. An example of this is the video for his song "PohLease" which translates his views on Police brutality and the injustices and grievances in and of the black community. This song has a voice and a message of it's own which reflects the concerns of an increasing number of African-American men. Nina Simone once said : "As far as I'm concerned it is an artist's duty to reflect the times". In my opinion the need for artists like Kamau to reflect matters that are not only relevant but important is constantly rising. I have a personal appreciation for artists like him that make matters relatable through music, a way of having one's voice heard in a manner so that almost everyone can understand.
Despite his clear and open stance musically, Kamau is quite mysterious, choosing to conceal his eyes, presumably so the listener is less interested in his looks and more his music and what he has to say. Either way I'd look out for him!
Kamau is available to listen to on Spotify, Soundcloud and Youtube so get your headphones on! #YEBO
