We Speak Music
mau from nowhere’s Soft Steps: A Sonic Journey of Growth and Grace

More than a year after his debut album, The Universe is Holding You, Kenyan-British artist mau from nowhere returns with his latest project, Soft Steps, a seven-track EP that showcases his continued sonic evolution. Blending alternative afro-fusion and R&B with his signature genre-bending style, Soft Steps presents a refined, innovative sound that charts mau’s authentic creative journey.
Raised across three continents—Nairobi, the UK, and the Netherlands—mau from nowhere’s music is a seamless fusion of local influences and global sounds, drawing inspiration from the likes of Outkast and Bloc Party. His eclectic background shines through in this latest release, which blends hip-hop, R&B, and electronic elements to create a unique soundscape. Having already captured attention with previous singles, a four-track EP, and his critically acclaimed debut album, mau’s Soft Steps serves as the next chapter in a rapidly evolving career.
Since being recognized as Apple Music’s East African Up Next artist in May 2023, mau’s trajectory has been on a steady rise. His serene, airy sound—marked by melodic raps and heartfelt lyrics—has brought a breath of fresh air to an industry often saturated by convention. Soft Steps further cements his place as a forward-thinking artist unafraid to experiment, offering listeners a meditative reflection on life, love, and the process of becoming.
The EP marks a notable shift from his earlier raw, rap-centric introspection to a more complex and melodic form of storytelling. This sonic evolution reflects a growing maturity as mau steps away from the purely personal to explore broader, universal themes. His ability to capture the intricacies of human emotion while maintaining an unmistakable groove is what makes Soft Steps both compelling and deeply relatable.
As mau from nowhere explains, Soft Steps is “an ode to patience, navigating growth and the trials that come with it with the grace to forgive myself and the calm endurance to forge onward into the unknown.” The title itself reflects the gentleness of this journey—taking one step at a time with quiet perseverance. Through these seven tracks, mau invites listeners to do the same, encouraging introspection and offering a comforting reminder that growth doesn’t always have to be rushed.
The EP’s production mirrors this theme of patience and grace, with lush soundscapes and subtle yet intricate instrumentation. Mau’s delicate approach to both his lyrics and beats brings a sense of calm to the project, making it feel more like an immersive experience than just a collection of songs. Tracks flow seamlessly from one to the next, weaving together a narrative that balances softness with strength—a reflection of mau’s own journey of self-discovery.
Soft Steps not only highlights mau from nowhere’s continued sonic evolution but also solidifies his place as an artist to watch. In a landscape where genre boundaries often feel rigid, mau’s ability to fluidly blend afro-fusion, R&B, and alternative sounds is both refreshing and groundbreaking. More than anything, this EP proves that his creative journey is far from over—if anything, Soft Steps feels like just the beginning.
As the world watches mau from nowhere move forward, one gentle step at a time, Soft Steps stands as a testament to his growth, resilience, and unwavering authenticity. It’s a project that speaks to the power of patience, and it’s clear that mau’s willingness to take his time is what sets him apart.
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We Speak Music
WESPEAKMEDIA: TOP 5 WEEKLY MUSIC ROUND-UP (18.04.25)

Find the latest new music in our ‘Top 5’ weekly music round-up here at We Speak Media. In this weekly feature, we will be bringing you the hottest new acts and music out there.
Stephan Folkes’ ‘It’s All Within Time (Travelling Through the Stars)’
Stephan Folkes’ ‘It’s All Within Time (Travelling Through the Stars)’ is more than a song—it’s a moment. Every lyric, every note feels like it was crafted with care and intention, guiding listeners through the highs and lows of life’s personal journey. His ability to blend vulnerability with groove is unmatched, creating a sound that comforts and empowers all at once. If you’ve ever needed a reminder to trust the timing of your own path, this is it.
Marsha Swanson ‘Like an Angel’
Marsha Swanson’s “Like an Angel” is the kind of music video that gently grabs your heart and doesn’t let go—in the best way. With her dreamy vocals floating over a gorgeous live arrangement and paired with Sam Chegini’s stunning, otherworldly animation, the video feels like a quiet, cinematic tribute to love and memory. It’s the perfect mix of emotion and artistry, and honestly, it’s hard not to watch it on repeat.
Suki Summer ‘Summer Crush’
Light, lush, and emotionally rich, Suki Summer’s “Summer Crush” earns its place as this season’s dreamy anthem. The track floats between indie and dream pop, anchored by lyrics that feel pulled from the pages of a journal. It’s a song that understands the tension between self-doubt and desire, wrapped in breezy production that makes it feel like golden hour in audio form. The added touch of real-life banter at the end brings a whole new level of intimacy, grounding the fantasy in real, relatable moments. It’s playful. It’s honest. And it’s pure Suki Summer.
Brandes ‘Please Don’t Call’
Lifted from Brandes brand new album, The Distance Between Dreams, “Please Don’t Call” is a deeply poignant meditation on the agonizing end of an affair. With its alternating plaintive verses and cascading chorus, the song evokes a powerful emotional landscape, enhanced by lush strings and a soulful Hammond organ. The track effortlessly channels the melancholy of Leonard Cohen and the emotional vulnerability of Joni Mitchell, capturing the raw, aching honesty of a relationship falling apart. The lyrical depth and emotional weight are impossible to ignore, as Brandes lays bare the painful realities of love’s end with heartbreaking clarity. This hauntingly beautiful song sets the tone for the album, offering a glimpse into the profound introspection and intimate storytelling that defines, The Distance Between Dreams.
Ren Martinez ‘The First & Last of the Perfect Parties’
Indie pop artist Ren Martinez is making waves with her new single, “The First & Last of the Perfect Parties,” a sync-ready anthem packed with nostalgic energy and diaristic detail. Backed by a recent deal with Aperture Music (known for Girls, Trainwreck, Swarm), the track showcases Martinez’s signature blend of emotional candor and melodic indie rock, offering a powerful preview of her fall debut album Fingers Crossed. With past placements in series like New Girl and Friends From College, Martinez is poised for a breakout year—on screen and on stage.
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