If a compilation of love letters, journal entries and sacred conversations with Self were ever perfectly redefined into music, it would be titled IYANA. The debut album features a variety of artists such as LanceRomeo, Betusile, Samke, etc., each collaboration a divine meshing of different sounds with the artists bringing their own unique contribution to the storytelling.  

Our songstress, Ikhona, has an eccentric vocal command which allows for a soulful delivery of every song on this project, she simply sounds like love if it were vocalised. Bendingubani opens us up to the vulnerability from which she cultivates her craft, while Sweet Nothing serves us bitter truths draped in harmonious melody, the purity in the flow of the album will have you humming along before you even know the lyrics. 

Enchanting lyricism that is sung from a place of purity always wins, after my fifth consecutive play Ndivuswe Yingoma myself; there’s a resounding warmth throughout the listening session, truly worth lending your ear. The diversity of moods makes the project fitting as accompaniment on a car ride/road trip, with songs like Yiza compelling your body to move in confined spaces, this is truly an all-round masterpiece that will age very well with time. 

The album is out for streaming and download, be sure not to miss this emerging gem, your new favourite song is on that track list.