British-Nigerian musician and filmmaker SIRA* has released her new track “Homecoming,” featuring electronic jazz pioneer Mark de Clive-Lowe. This single is part of her upcoming debut LP, Songs for the End of the World, set to release this Friday.
The track opens with haunting vocals and layered harmonies, gradually introducing African influences through percussive instruments that create a compelling groove. As the composition evolves, the addition of piano and jazz elements enhances its engaging atmosphere, seamlessly bridging jazz and African musical traditions.
“Homecoming” serves as a meditation on the concept of returning to one’s birthplace, even if one never lived there. It draws inspiration from a recording of SIRA’s all-women’s masquerade and singing group in Nigeria, called Sira Ogbo. De Clive-Lowe enriches the track with vibrant solos on keys and synths, culminating in a euphoric, danceable sound that highlights its African roots.
SIRA*, the musical alter ego of visual artist Zina Saro-Wiwa, is a proud member of the Ogoni people, with a rich background steeped in cultural heritage. Her father, Ken Saro-Wiwa, was a writer and human rights activist executed in 1995 for advocating against environmental degradation in Ogoniland.
The forthcoming album Songs for the End of the World features an eclectic mix of tracks that explore themes of environmentalism, identity, and the apocalypse. The album includes collaborations with notable musicians such as Daryl Johns and features field recordings from SIRA’s artistic endeavors in Ogoniland.
SIRA*’s music combines influences from various genres, including jazz, world music, and electronic sounds, creating a unique auditory experience that transcends traditional classifications. Her work reflects her diverse experiences, from her childhood in Nigeria to her artistic development in the UK and the US.
Through her multifaceted approach, SIRA* aims to transform personal and collective pain into powerful, healing art, illustrating her commitment to using creativity as a means of connection and reflection.