KOKOROKO Soft Launch New Era With Romantic Single ’Sweetie'

KOKOROKO 

London-based jazz collective KOKOROKO share romantic single ’Sweetie' as they soft launch for their upcoming second studio album Tuff Times Never Last.

On ’Sweetie' the London-based band leans more into the sounds of West African disco and experiments with electronic elements utilizing drum patterns, guitar rifts and synths to create a distinct and authentic grounding for a drawn-out horn-led melody.

Taking their time, there is no rush in tone, rather everything is cool and relaxed as the female vocalist’ croons over the more dynamic sections of the instrumentation teasingly as she playful encourages her partner “to make my heartbeat bounce” as she describes her feelings.

The upcoming summer album will be released by Brownswood Recordings and is a collection of tender and sensuous tracks that explore themes of togetherness, community, sensuality, childhood, loss and perseverance.

The group found inspiration from a trending social media meme, co-bandleader Onome Edgeworth said speaking about the title and it’s meaning: “It’s true! Although we’re reflecting on joy and celebration, you realize that a lot of that beauty comes out of challenges and difficulties. It felt like a natural truth that we discovered whilst writing”.

The accompanying artwork was painted by acclaimed illustrator Luci Pina. Speaking on its design, co-bandleader Sheila Maurice-Grey said: “The remit was summer in London, family and sense of everyone being in a congregation-like audience, and us being the musicians”. 

KOKOROKO are also set to play London’s O2 Academy Brixton on September 25th.

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