DRB - Softly [Audio]
Lagos based, Nigerian collective DRB announce their debut album ‘Pioneers’ with the release of their brand new single ‘Softly.’
Members Boj, Fresh L and TeeZee have spent the last few years building their presence within the fast growing Alté scene, having released a run of successful solo and group mixtapes, EP’s and singles. With great influence across the art and music of Nigeria, the trio’s long awaited album ‘Pioneers’ celebrates the trio’s role in shaping African youth culture. Marrying the best of classic Afro-beat and hip hop, the album includes features with other Alté figureheads such as Santi, TEMS and Lady Donli.
‘Softly’ is described as an African love story. Speaking on the single, TeeZee says, “softly in Nigeria represents being gentle. It's a term that's used for endearment. For example, when someone looks great or if someone is having a good time and relaxing you can say they are soft. Softly identifies calmness and gentleness, while delivering something fresh and brand new. We describe the song as an African love story and it's coming at the perfect time - just before Easter. We wanted to mix the original sounds of afro beat but infused with the new wave of the Alté sound. The producer on the track Pheelz has made hit records through Nigeria like Billionaire from Teni The Entertainer.”
The artwork for the release was created by new wave Nigerian visual artist, Anedu Edozien, inspired by Roy Lichtenstein’s classic 1963 ‘In The Car’ painting. It’s said that Edozien also created the album artwork entitled ‘Midnight Friends’ portraying the creative community, style, culture and rebelliousness of Lagos culture.
DRB’s debut album ‘Pioneers’ is due for release on May 1st 2020 via Alté Lasgidi. Until then, enjoy the vibes of ‘Softly.’