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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With their latest single ‘Echo’, tinvis offers a stunning glimpse into the complexities of belonging and displacement. Written during a time of constant travel between California and Texas, ‘Echo’ captures the internal conflict of existing in two places at once—yet feeling connected to neither. Joel Daniel’s evocative songwriting taps into the universal longing for home, while the song’s production creates a sense of vastness that mirrors the emotional landscape of the lyrics. This track is both a personal reflection and a broader commentary on the human condition, making it all the more powerful and relatable.
The song unfolds slowly, building in layers that add both emotional and sonic depth. A hypnotic rhythm section sets the foundation, while lush, atmospheric guitars and delicate piano lines add texture and color. Daniel’s voice is the emotional center of the track, carrying the weight of the song’s themes with a quiet intensity. His delivery feels both intimate and expansive, inviting listeners into his world while also allowing them to project their own experiences onto the song. ‘Echo’ is a masterclass in emotional storytelling through music, capturing the vulnerability and strength that define the human experience.
What sets ‘Echo’ apart is its ability to blend both timeless and contemporary influences. While Tinvis’ sound draws comparisons to the folk legends of Dylan and Young, there’s also a clear nod to modern alt-rock and indie singer-songwriters like Phoebe Bridgers and Wild Pink. Daniel’s songwriting has an effortless way of capturing the melancholy of life’s transitions while still maintaining an undercurrent of hope. The song feels nostalgic, yet fresh, echoing the past while firmly grounded in the present.
The production on ‘Echo’ elevates the song to new heights, with Max Hart’s expert touch guiding the track into something truly transcendent. The collaboration with guitarist Luke Reynolds and drummer Eric Gardner also plays a key role in shaping the song’s sound, adding layers of richness and texture that deepen its emotional resonance. Recorded in Austin, Texas, at Ramble Creek Studio, the track has a warmth and organic quality that makes it feel like a living, breathing entity. Every element of the song contributes to its feeling of movement, both physical and emotional.
‘Echo’ is the second single from Tinvis’ upcoming debut album, Texnia, and it offers a tantalizing taste of what’s to come. With its rich songwriting, atmospheric production, and emotional depth, ‘Echo’ further solidifies Tinvis as one of the most exciting new acts in indie rock. Joel Daniel’s ability to capture the complexity of the human experience in song is remarkable, and with, Texnia, Tinvis is poised to make an even greater impact. ’Echo’ is a reflection of Daniel’s personal journey, and in it, we hear a voice that is uniquely his own—honest, vulnerable, and brimming with potential.
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