Sola Akingbola's "How Should I" delves into the fusion of cultures through sonic exploration.

You might be new to hearing the name Sola Akingbola, but chances are, his music has already had an influence on you. Sola, who has been a percussionist for the Grammy-winning band Jamiroquai for a long time and the composer for the CBS hit sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola, has had his music heard by millions worldwide. With his latest album, How Should I, Sola emerges from obscurity to take center stage, blending elements of traditional Yoruba culture with modern British influences in a deeply personal way.

How Should I contains 11 songs that exhibit Sola's versatile abilities as a songwriter and artist. The album is influenced by his Nigerian background but also reflects the various music styles of London, the city where he was raised. The project's essence lies in the fusion of Yoruba rhythms and poetry with the diverse and funky UK music scene, creating a unique duality.

The song "How Should I" provides a cinematic experience, originally penned for the Royal Shakespeare Company's 2016 rendition of Hamlet. The song showcases Olivier-winning actress Sheila Atim, highlighting Sola's blending of cultures as Atim's vocals effortlessly rise over a relaxed, jazz-lounge rhythm. The understated yet impactful musical arrangement adds richness to the track, setting it apart from the rest of the album.

The album starts with the lively track "Touch My Soul”. This lively song embodies Sola's lively percussion style, mixing catchy rhythms with moving melodies. The music video was recorded at the famous Abbey Road Studios, adding extra prestige to the song.

"Olukumi" continues this rhythmic celebration, offering listeners an immersive journey into Afrobeat-inspired sounds.

For more reflective moments, "My Brother’s Keeper" explores themes of brotherhood, cultural identity, and social responsibility, all wrapped in Akingbola's signature sound. This track is particularly moving, with its layered instrumentation and contemplative lyrics encouraging listeners to look deeper into the importance of human connection.

Sola’s ability to blend these cultural elements is nothing short of masterful. As he states, “This album is a bridge between my Nigerian heritage and my British upbringing." Tracks like "Judas Kiss" and "Igi Nla" continue to expand on this fusion, showcasing how Akingbola’s dual influences coexist harmoniously throughout the album.

How Should I is more than just a music experience; it is also a cultural journey that celebrates the ability of music to go beyond limits, bring together different worlds, and express the changing nature of identity. Akingbola's deep connection to his Yoruba roots and his vast experience performing alongside iconic musicians like Stevie Wonder and The Rolling Stones give this album a profound quality that goes beyond a simple collection of songs; it is a one-of-a-kind experience.

The release of the album will be divided into two parts, with the first part containing sides A and B on vinyl, and the second part scheduled for spring 2025. With his album How Should I, Sola Akingbola cements his presence in the music industry, showing his ability to blend traditional elements with new ideas to create a unique and cutting-edge sound.

For those interested in a sophisticated, soul-enriching blend of Yoruba rhythms, contemporary jazz, and British soul, How Should I is a must-listen. Sola Akingbola may have been behind the scenes for years, but this album firmly places him center stage, where he rightfully belongs.