Kokoroko had drawn attention a few months ago with the 4-track EP “Get the Message”. Then the band from percussionist Onome Edgeworth and trumpeter and singer Sheila Maurice-Grey (which also belongs to Nubya Garcias Ensemble Nérija) canceled her current approach that is ranging in the direction of meditation.
Recommendations of the editorial team
The new album begins with a scarce electronic backspin sequence and then spreads into many different directions, almost continuously in a very warm, organic sound, discreetly recorded: from the jazzy soul ballads “Together we Are” and “My Father in Heaven” to a soft disco track like “Da Dah” to the leads to the “Sweetie” in the one in the one in one So Machine elegantly falls into wide choice.
The lonely highlight is the song “Three Piece Suit” (with singer Azekel), which was already at the center at the EP. The ensemble based in London runs its search for traces to the ancestors on quiet AfroBeat soles, singer and choir form an increasing tension, the wind players sing particularly beautiful. This also describes the harmonious mood of Tuff Times Never Last, Kokoroko play their come-together songs all of Laidback, it is a gentle call to hug and optimism.
This review was first published in the MusikExpress 08/2025.