Nina Ogot Revitalizes Afro-Fusion with New Album “Ukumbu.KE”
The album title is a playful take on the Swahili word “ukumbu” (memories), transforming it into “ukumbuke” (let us remember) with an added “.ke” to symbolize a vault for Kenyan music and culture.
Kenyan Afro-Fusion singer-songwriter Nina Ogot invigorates the live music scene once again with the release of her brand new album, “Ukumbu.KE.” This 9-track album, characterized by a fresh outlook, once again showcases Nina Ogot’s depth as a live performer. True to her style, she has crafted another project that reflects her thoughts and feelings, featuring live compositions backed by her band.
Regarding the album, Nina shares, “Working on this project was a wonderful experience for me to reminisce about different moments, events, and elements that have enriched my life over the years. In the process, I rediscovered a plethora of ideas that transformed into music and transport the listener from the past into the present moment.”
“Ukumbu.KE” embodies vibrant guitar sounds, groovy percussion, and melodic horns that harmonize perfectly with Nina Ogot’s unique vocal timbre, predominantly in Swahili and Luo. The album also integrates traditional sounds like Taarab and Bango melodies from the Coast, the percussive Isukuti of the Luhya, and the spiritual Dodo rhythms of the Luo people, reinforcing its cultural roots.
The album title is a playful take on the Swahili word “ukumbu” (memories), transforming it into “ukumbuke” (let us remember) with an added “.ke” to symbolize a vault for Kenyan music and culture. “Ukumbu.KE” revives Nina’s childhood and adult memories, drawing from traditional music, tales, and iconic movies and TV personalities. The album’s sound not only pays homage to cultural roots but also creates a vibrant live music experience, forging new memories for contemporary audiences.
One notable track is a rearranged version of “Chokoraa,” originally featured on her 2008 debut album “Ninairobi.” This new rendition highlights Nina Ogot’s musical evolution and lyrical prowess, transforming the song from a laid-back acoustic piece into a powerful call-to-action addressing the plight of street people.
In contrast to her previous album “Dala,” which featured mostly European musicians, Nina chose to record “Ukumbu.KE” in Nairobi to capture an authentic Kenyan vibe. The horn sections, arranged and recorded in Germany, add an international flair. The singer, who composed all the songs, opted for a less experimental and more resolute style of arrangements. While the horns and guitars provide memorable hook lines, it is Nina Ogot’s confidence and sensuousness that stand out.
Reflecting on the album, Nina concludes, “I invite you to experience the diversity of ideas I captured in lyrics and to rediscover the cultural melodies that we once knew but almost forgot. This album will take you on a musical adventure that will fill your hearts with nostalgia, keep your heads bobbing, and feet dancing to the rhythm.”
EDITOR’S NOTES
Nina Ogot is a Kenyan singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actress, also known for her roles as a former radio host and TV presenter. Born and raised in Nairobi, her compositions reflect her Luo origins and those of other Kenyan tribes. She debuted with her soulful acoustic album “Ninairobi” in 2008, followed by Afro-pop remixes of “Wololo” and “Aheri” in 2010. In 2014, she released the collaborative album “Yote Yote” with Kenyan contemporary Benga musician Winyo.
Nina has performed internationally, including at renowned festivals such as the Afrika Festival in Wurzburg, Chiala Festival in Austria, Afro-Asia Festival in Kerala, Bayimba Festival in Kampala, and Moshito Festival in Johannesburg. She participated in the OneBeat musical and cultural exchange program, using the platform to advocate for Kenyan street people. Her efforts, in collaboration with the Kuruka Maisha Foundation, were recognized with the prestigious American National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards, a project initiated by former First Lady Michelle Obama.
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