Water and Garri: Overview, Review, and Ratings
Overview
“Water and Garri” is a project by the Nigerian-American artist Santi that was released on the 27th of September 2021. This EP was a fusion between afrobeat and afro-pop, with alternate indie music that carried a new perspective toward the modern African sound. The project, entitled “Water and Garri,” is inspired by the simplest meal one will find in a Nigerian household, composed of just garri—cassava flour—and water, which symbolizes simplicity and authenticity.
This project has five tracks: “Disturb”, “Rush Hour”, “Freaky”, “Toxic”, and “Kumbaya”. The different moods and themes that the artist visits include love, heartbreak, self-reflection, and social issues. The production does much to adopt lush, ambient soundscapes, intricate rhythms, and smooth vocal delivery.
Review
“Water and Garri” has received high critical acclaim by the fact that it is really different in taking on Afrobeat, putting cultural African sounds into modern influences. It is Santi’s ability to create emotionally-resonating melodies while integrating cultural elements that makes this EP stand out.
- “Disturb“: Right from the get-go, this track ushers in guests to the EP in the form of a catchy beat and introspective lyrics. The production is glossy, fusing both electronic and organic for a heady mix. Santi turns in a confident vocal performance, really setting a high standard for the rest of the project.
- “Rush Hour”: This song has a really unique rhythmic feel with many grooves and energies. The track is about some urban hustle and troubles in modern life. Production here is lively; it’s a mix between traditional African instruments and modern-day beats.
- “Freaky”: Easily a top track on this EP, “Freaky” is a sensual vocals-stricken number paired with an easy-flowing beat. Sultry lyrics, combined with a smooth vibe, make this song intimate and alluring at once. It befits Santi’s tendency to bring Afrobeat with more relaxed and genre-blending elements together.
- “Toxic”: The song takes a turn into the more reflective realms of toxic relationships. Production is very minimalistic so that Santi’s lyrics and emotions come through. It’s an emotive song, raw in nature, adding depth into the EP.
- “Kumbaya”: The final track brings the project to a reflective close. The slow, introspective lyrics communicate a sense of closure and calm. Production on the song allows slight influences of traditional classic African music to come out and hence soothingly close the EP.
Ratings
Criticized yet fan-acclaimed is “Water and Garri.” The average rating across all music review sites is 8.5/10. Of course, that is because it is an original very cohesive piece, with a unique artistic vision from Santi that appeals to fans of Afrobeat and anyone looking for something different in contemporary music.
Better put, “Water and Garri” is a statement record about Santi’s creative power and his ability to bridge many cultural and musical gaps. It is an enjoyable listen with the rich tapestry of sound and emotion that makes it outstanding against today’s music scene.
