Kenyan Composer Crafts Sonic Memories of Home

Nyokabi Kariũki, a Kenyan composer, has released an EP titled "peace places: kenyan memories." The EP delves into themes of home and memory, created while Kariũki was abroad and unable to return to her hometown of Nairobi due to pandemic travel restrictions. She utilized audio recordings of her favorite places in and around Nairobi, which she calls her "peace places," as the foundation for the musical pieces.

These recordings were transformed into melodic sound collages, enriched with Kenyan influences. For instance, "Galu" incorporates the sounds of waves and bird chirping, while "Equator Song" features harmonies sung partly in Kiswahili and Maa, reflecting her Maasai heritage. Kariũki acknowledges the complexities of language in Kenya, stemming from colonial history.

The EP also touches upon the evolving perception of home upon return. "A Walk Through My Cũcũ's Farm" captures a family gathering, juxtaposing joyful sounds with an underlying electronic unease, symbolizing the transient nature of such moments. Kariũki embraces both the joy and melancholy associated with cherished places, presenting an honest portrayal of belonging.