Full Review

Nai-Jah, Democrazy Review

by Seamus Fitzpatrick

With a mix of today’s sounds and traditional reggae, Nai-Jah brings us his evolving landscape, Democrazy, released on May 17, 2024, under the Khanti Music label. The thirteen-song play reflects his unique ability to merge the richness of African and Western styles into a cohesive and captivating musical journey. Nai-Jah, alongside The Kwenu Band, delivers an album that is as much a political statement as it celebrates diverse musical traditions.

The Kwenu Band, comprising Delaunay Nicolas (drums, vocals, percussion), Macler Raphael (keyboards, vocals), Combe Grégory (guitar), and Monier Guillaume (sousaphone), brings a unique and profound dimension to Nai-Jah’s music. The integration of the sousaphone, typically a flagship instrument of New Orleans brass bands, adds a distinctive depth to their sound, making their music infectious and thought-provoking.

Democrazy is a melting pot of musical influences, reflecting Nai-Jah’s journey from the bustling streets of Lagos to the diverse cultural landscape of France. The album effortlessly blends reggae and dub rhythms with Latin Caribbean textures, rap, R&B, Afrobeat, and the distinctly South African amapiano. This eclectic mix is a testament to Nai-Jah’s extensive travels and his profound understanding of how music can bridge cultural divides.

The title Democrazy itself is a clever play on the words’ democracy’ and ‘crazy,’ encapsulating Nai-Jah’s critical view of contemporary political systems. The album cover, designed by the Mexican artist Gran Om, poignantly depicts a man with his mouth covered by restrictive hands, symbolizing the silencing of voices in supposedly democratic systems. This visual sets the stage for an album that uses music as a powerful medium to discuss heavy themes such as politics, corruption, and social injustices, inviting the audience to reflect and engage.

“Against all odds” opens the album with an exotic reggae groove, enriched by Guillaume’s unique sousaphone. Nai-Jah’s lead vocals are enchanting, and the harmonies provided by Nicolas and Raphael add depth. This track intriguingly connects house music with modern reggae, setting a compelling tone for the album.

“Searching for a reason” features a more traditional reggae feel. Nai-Jah’s light, rhythmic vocals are complemented by Grégory’s syncopated guitar chords and tasteful solo fills. The introspective lyrics about searching for meaning add a spiritual layer to the song.

“Trodding away” is a straight-ahead reggae groove with elements of Tex-Arkana creating a fun and jovial atmosphere. The track embodies the light-hearted yet socially conscious spirit of Nai-Jah & The Kwenu Band.

“Home sweet” presents an Afro-Cuban vibe adorning the reggae rhythmic structure to create a danceable track. The horns and sousaphone add vibrant color, while the vocals feature moments of counterpoint. The minor key infuses the song with a mysterious flavor, making it danceable and intriguing.

Produced by Clémént Thouard (Tamal), who also handled the mixing, and mastered by Simon Capony, Democrazy benefits from top-notch production quality. Democrazy is a bold political dance that invites listeners to engage with their bodies and minds. Nai-Jah’s social and political commentary set to infectious musical rhythms makes this album enjoyable to listen to as it is thought-provoking. That’s the short of it!