The EP opens with Ritual, an hypnotic groove driven by a resonant bassline and a hooky, uplifting chorus. Ambient vocals add airiness, balancing its forward momentum with an expansive feel, showcasing Azekel’s mastery of atmospheric R&B. Opening the EP with Ritual is a smart choice, instantly hooking new listeners and setting a compelling tone.
Love Potion, a collaboration with Falana, weaves a subtle touch of Afrobeat into its minimalistic yet free-flowing rhythm. The instrumentation is understated, allowing the delicately delivered vocals to shine, with a falsetto hook that seamlessly elevates the track’s effortless musicality.
Same Wayz captivates with its hypnotic, repetitive groove, leaning into a minimalistic approach yet again, only with a darker tone. Staying true to Azekel’s signature style, the track places the groove front and center, driven by a focused, articulate bassline and a mid-tempo swing. The falsetto hook adds a mesmerizing touch; the kind of track suited to replay without losing flavour.
Smooth ventures into chill territory, built around a recurring two-chord progression that lays the foundation for experimental flourishes. An unrooted, droning bassline evokes a sense of uncertainty, while touches of violin, glitch elements, and a house bass, add hybrid layers evoking intrigue.
Jara is a captivating blend of cavernous, echoing vocals layered over a steady Afrobeat groove. It’s another track designed for endless replay. Azekel’s relaxed vocal style effortlessly locks into the groove, making this the EP’s strongest example of his ability to blend vocal fluidity with swing.
Passion lifts the tempo with a steady, driving beat, infusing the track with vibrant energy. The familiar use of vocal reverb adds a thematic cohesion to the EP, while the saxophone lends a touch of elegance. With its lively, bouncy groove, Passion wraps up the EP on an upbeat and uplifting note.
Azekel’s Sonic Incense EP is a masterful exploration of groove, atmosphere, and artistic precision. Each track offers its own distinct character, from the hypnotic bass-driven pulse of Ritual to the understated elegance of Love Potion and the darker, repetitive allure of Same Wayz. Tracks like Smooth delve into experimental textures, while Jara highlights Azekel’s effortless ability to merge vocal fluidity with rhythmic swing. This is a cohesive body of work that solidifies his position as a standout voice in contemporary R&B.
