Soul/Review Sola Akingbola & The Eegun Rhapsodies - How Should I

Sola Akingbola is a celebrated percussionist, songwriter, and composer known for fusing traditional Yoruba rhythms with contemporary music styles. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Sola’s musical journey began early, rooted in his homeland's rich cultural heritage. His exceptional talent and passion for percussion have made him a global music figure. As the percussionist for Jamiroquai since 1995, Sola's distinctive rhythms have significantly shaped the band’s sound, captivating audiences worldwide.

"How Should I" with The Eegun Rhapsodies, an album by Sola Akingbola, is a beautiful blend of cultural themes that examines Yoruba history from a modern UK perspective. Akingbola, who is well-known for his profound cultural understanding, creates music that speaks to the adaptability of Yoruba customs and their reinterpretation on a worldwide scale. By fusing Yoruba poetry with Greek classical elements, this project celebrates and revives Yoruba culture in the present era while producing a really distinctive soundtrack.

The tone of the album is established by the title tune, "How Should I," which was originally written for the Royal Shakespeare Company's Hamlet. The song, which features Sheila Atim's deep and constrained vocals, is superimposed with a jazz-lounge beat that keeps the sound cinematic and tempts listeners to immerse themselves in its emotional depth and intricate rhythms. The piece's considerate, even philosophical component as it considers identity and belonging is enhanced by Atim's ethereal voice.

"How Should I" has complex, percussion-driven music that blends in well with Afrobeat and jazz elements throughout the album. Each track develops as if it were a story, showcasing the layers of cultural connection and showcasing Sola Akingbola's artistic quest. “How Should I” is a musically rich and culturally significant addition to today's global music scene because it provides a profoundly reflective listening experience that addresses the changing nature of identity, legacy, and contemporary expression.