More about: Joshua Idehens

In his latest mixtape, Learn To Swim, Joshua Idehen delves into a wide range of emotions, exploring themes of trust, hope, love, authenticity, self-awareness, solitude, resilience, and mental health. As a British-born Nigerian artist currently based in Sweden, Idehen is redefining the art of storytelling through sound. With his immense promise, and as he continues to hone his craft with increased focus and courage, he is sure to become an even more formidable force in the music industry.

Joshua Idehen is a British-Nigerian artist who has carved out a unique space for himself in the international electronic and jazz scenes as a frontman, poet, and educator. His contributions have been recognized in Mercury Prize-nominated albums, as well as through compelling spoken word performances for high-profile platforms like Boiler Room. 

Idehen's artistic vision combines Nigerian and London dialects, fearlessly addressing issues of identity and politics that set him apart from his peers. But what distinguishes Idehen's style is his ability to maintain a distinct voice and flow without relying on rap, even when accompanied by intricate jazz rhythms and danceable beats.

"This album is a testament to Idehen's ability to speak to personal experiences while still delivering a universal message"

With his latest project, Learn To Swim, Idehen continues to explore the complexities of the human experience, delving into themes of trust, hope, love, self-awareness, solitude, resilience, and mental health. This album is a testament to Idehen's ability to speak to personal experiences while still delivering a universal message that resonates with his listeners. The project follows over a decade of amazing projects, a repertoire of impressive singles, and his latest work, 'Best Kind of Lost.'

On the opening track, 'Don't You Give Up On Me,' Joshua Idehen addresses a complex tale of friendship during difficult times, finding strength in hope. His words, "I'm getting myself into gear, the signal is starting to clear, your mate is still here beneath the layers," are delivered with a sincerity that leaves one with no choice but to believe him. The soulful sonics of the song are accompanied by piano chords fused with heavenly strings and a wandering bassline, creating an ethereal atmosphere that enhances Idehen's poignant message.

In the compelling track ‘The World's A Madness,’ the second song on the album, the tone is set with a hauntingly beautiful soundscape and introspective spoken word poetry by Idehen, delving into the many struggles and chaos of the world we inhabit. The production quality of this piece is noteworthy, with the combination of electronic beats and strings generating an entrancing atmosphere.

‘Best Kind of Lost’ follows, changing the pace with an infectious melody that complements the upbeat rhythm. The lyrics capture the uplifting sense of abandon that blossoms within the safe haven of love, as two individuals agree to be locked into one another and are free to experience the highs and lows of each other's existence.

In ‘What We're Doing Tonight,’ the fourth track off the album, a mid-tempo electronic beat serves as the foundation for a captivating blend of spoken word poetry by Idehen and Katie Dove Dixon's evocative vocals, expertly complemented by gentle piano chords and atmospheric sound effects. Meanwhile, ‘Learn to Swim Part II,’ the fifth track, emerges as a true highlight, skillfully utilizing the sound of ocean waves as a backdrop for Idehen's poignant and vulnerable vocal delivery. Part of the track's relatable lyrics touch on the universal theme of heartbreak with lines such as "Your heart would be broken / You will break hearts."

"Learn To Swim offers a captivating soundscape that blends Idehens distinctive spoken word poetry, soulful singing, and electronic beats"

As the project reaches its halfway mark, Idehen's contagious sound and lyricism have already been deeply immersed. Throughout the remainder of the album, a consistent aspect is the direct and incisive songwriting. Many of the tracks adopt a first-person perspective, placing emphasis on Idehen's personal emotions. This approach is not unfamiliar to Idehen, and is notably evident in tracks such as ‘Last Time’ and ‘Unfold,’ where the artist's penchant for candid introspection is particularly prominent.

Collaborative synergy between two outstanding artists in a recording studio is believed to lead to exceptional music production. Such is the case with track eight, titled 'End Of The Line', which features the talented Joshua Idehen and the English singer-songwriter, Jono McCleery. McCleery's impressive vocal range is on full display while Idehen's exceptional skill in crafting lyrics and infusing his distinctive personality into his performance elevates the track. Idehen's vocal delivery exudes the aura of a digitized street preacher delivering poignant sermons, making 'End Of The Line' a standout joint effort.

The final moments of the album are marked by a pair of songs that act as an epilogue. ‘I Got You Every Step Of The Way,’ a tribute to the cherished friendship between Idehen and Leone Ross, godmother to his daughter, offers a heartfelt celebration of camaraderie, benevolence, and unwavering support. Demonstrating a desire to venture beyond musical conventions, Idehen masterfully blends gospel house and rave. Culminating the project, ‘All The Same’ offers a captivating glimpse into Idehen's innermost musings on genuine affection and the experience of falling in love.

Overall, Learn To Swim, offers a captivating soundscape that blends Idehens distinctive spoken word poetry, soulful singing, and electronic beats. The album's standout qualities include its socially aware lyrics, superb production quality by producer and frequent collaborator, Ludvig Parment, and its cohesive storytelling that connects the individual tracks. While a few songs may come across as contemplative or languid to some audiences, the album as a whole is an essential listen for anyone seeking conscious music.

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More about: Joshua Idehens