U.S-based Nigerian artist Tomidrey returns from a two-year hiatus with his debut EP in 2024, “Ela.” The project is the follow-up to his critically acclaimed album, “Blue Roses,” “Ela” displays the artist’s musical odyssey.
“Ela” is a kaleidoscopic variety of narratives and melodies, a resplendent exploration that totally captures Tomidrey’s sonic profile. A sucker for instrumentation, Tomidrey crafts sonic magic from percussion and strings to mesmerizing key chords.
The five-track EP explores through a web of narrative threads. The opening track, titled “Ela” like the EP itself, extols praise and adulation of the Most High. In “Pepe,” he swoons about keeping the flames of love alive. This exploration of love continues through “Show You Off” featuring Kayla Arnold, “All On Me,” “Lemon Love,” and the last song, “L.”
A definitive part of Tomidrey’s music is his cultural heritage. He organically incorporates elements of Yoruba culture within a broader soundscape, fostering accessibility and propagating the culture further on the global stage.
Beyond his artistry in “Ela,” Tomidrey is also an eminent bassist who has performed alongside Afrobeats giants like Davido, Fireboy and Olamide. His ability to fuse diverse genres and styles, with his rich vocals is on full blast throughout the EP.
“Ela’s” extremely therapeutic nature is sure to build a domicile on playlists. Its contagious energy has the potential to tug the heart strings of listeners everywhere.