Kenyan-British artist mau from nowhere returns with his latest project, Soft Steps, a seven-track EP that continues his genre-blending exploration of alternative afro-fusion and R&B. Mau, who has rapidly evolved his sonic identity, presents an authentic and innovative journey through this collection, effortlessly fusing local influences with global sounds.
Born and raised in Nairobi, the UK, and the Netherlands, mau from nowhere has cultivated a musical style as diverse as his upbringing. Drawing inspiration from acts like Outkast and Bloc Party, he weaves together hip-hop, R&B, and electronic elements, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly unique. His earlier releases, including his four-track EP and debut album, showcased his genre-fluid approach, earning him recognition as Apple Music’s East African Up Next artist in 2023.
With, Soft Steps, mau continues his departure from the raw rap-centric introspection of his earlier work, embracing a more melodic form of storytelling. The EP marks a maturation in his sound, examining the universality of love, life, and personal growth with patience and grace. Each track navigates the delicate process of becoming, with mau’s serene and airy sound offering a moment of calm in an industry often saturated with convention and noise.
This sense of calm endurance permeates the EP, where mau’s use of melodic raps and heartfelt lyrics strikes a harmonious balance. The genre-blending nature of the project feels both expansive and intimate, taking listeners on a journey that is at once deeply personal and universally relatable. Soft Steps, invites the audience to slow down, reflect, and move forward with intention—an inspiring message wrapped in a refreshing and rejuvenating soundscape.
mau from nowhere’s willingness to push boundaries, blending alternative afro-fusion with the warmth of R&B, shows an artist who is unafraid to evolve. Soft Steps, is not just an EP; it’s a statement of growth, patience, and creative exploration, solidifying mau’s place as one of the most innovative voices in East African music.
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