ALEWYA
Zero (Because London)
Alewya’s 15-song debut album, in mixing music from her Ethiopian-Egyptian dual heritage with lyrics inspired by her London upbringing, is the perfect example of two cultures blending together to create something beautiful, exciting and unique.
With a London accent penetrating intricate African beats on City Of Symbols, some of the first lyrics we encounter are “I kill myself to let the new in” – setting the tone for the album as rebirth and Alewya’s journey through identity. It may take a good few listens to Zero to understand the story behind its lyrics and the importance of the interludes – however, this speaks to the raw and realistic nature of an album that sometimes feels like a messy diary entry.
On Cairo FM, the tone switches to uplifting and energetic following an intermission track, aided by Vraell’s experimental and funky guitar instrumentals. Maktoub, conversely, places emphasis onto by Ejeebee’s drums. Equally ethereal and whimsical as it’s bold and striking, Zero hypnotises over its runtime: prepare to be fully immersed.
words AMY FORD
