Get ready to embark on a soulful journey as Namibian songstress Diolini prepares to release her latest body of work, ‘Butterfly Echo’, an eight-track EP that will be available on vinyl only.
With a tantalising blend of vulnerability, live instruments and a touch of jazz, this project promises to take you back to the roots of neo-soul while delivering a fresh and timeless experience.
This Friday, Diolini will be hosting the first showcase of ‘Butterfly Echo’ at the new Windhoek art cafe Etcetera. A hub of creativity and relaxed charm, this venue perfectly complements the album’s ethos.
The event is all about diving head first into Diolini’s musical universe, with tickets priced at N$100 each, while a copy of the vinyl record is going for N$1 000. Prepare for an immersive experience where live performances take a back seat, giving the music the centre stage it deserves.
So, what can you expect from this auditory experience? Diolini opens up about her emotional journey, drawing inspiration from moments of growth.
“I was in a really vulnerable state when we started the album. So I wanted to just delve into that time of my life,” she says.
She adds that the album’s eight tracks are a harmonious blend of soulful melodies and organic sounds.
Kid Wasabi, a local producer, joined forces with Diolini, resulting in a natural and raw essence that also led to the album’s intriguing title.
The singer says the phrase encapsulates the EP’s essence and history, and is testament to the deep connection between herself and Kid Wasabi.
Themes of romance, love, spiritual ascension and freedom thread through the album’s lyrical tapestry. Diolini’s intention is to revisit her neo-soul roots, and the addition of jazz elements brings a sophisticated layer of depth to the project.
Exploring her vulnerability and delivering a pure, raw musical experience, ‘Butterfly Echo’ promises to transport listeners to a realm of introspection and self-discovery.
Behind the scenes, the production process was a liberating journey, Diolini says.
Collaborating with Kid Wasabi, she was able to let loose and embrace creativity with childlike wonder. This freedom allowed the integration of live instruments, lending an organic and timeless quality to the album’s sound.
The decision to release ‘Butterfly Echo’ on vinyl was no random choice.
Diolini and Kid Wasabi drew inspiration from the classic record-listening experience, where pulling a record from its sleeve and placing the needle on it is an artful ritual in itself.
Diolini believes this approach brings an additional layer of luxury, inviting listeners to immerse themselves fully in her musical journey.
The duo aims to bring value back to the music business, offering fans a chance to truly support artists and also have a more tangible connection with them.
As the needle touches the vinyl’s surface, the essence of ‘Butterfly Echo’ will be coming to life this weekend in a way that streaming platforms can’t replicate, she says.
The live instrumentalists’ contributions and the meticulously crafted soundscapes will be heightened through the unique auditory experience that vinyl provides.
Prepare to be enchanted by Diolini’s musical offering as ‘Butterfly Echo’ takes flight.
– Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer and commentator. Follow her online or email her annehambuda@gmail.com for more.
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