More than two years after her last project, Trip, Jhene Aiko has announced that she will be releasing a new album, Chilombo, on March 6. Though the artist has released a poetry book and short film (both counterparts of her last album) as well a few singles during the past two years, fans have not had their full fix. Upon revealing the album cover and release date on her social media, supporters went crazy on Twitter and Instagram. “[I‘ve] been waiting for too long,” one fan tweeted. “So does that mean a tour is next…” another questioned. Some even expressed anger with the March release date, upset that the album didn’t arrive in February as previously rumored.
Jhene Aiko began her music career at the young age of 14. She appeared in several of the band B2K’s music videos and was featured on the soundtracks for several television shows and movies. She took a break from music to finish her education and returned in 2011 with the release of her first body of work, a mixtape named Sailing Souls. Aiko took off in 2014 when her single “The Worst” from her debut EP, Sail Out, became popular. Since then, Jhene has made a major name for herself in the music industry. Her ability to dabble in all areas of music and art makes her stand out from others in the industry. From neo-soul to hip-hop to psychedelic music, Jhene’s extensive range has contributed to a great amount of her success.
A contrast from Trip, which takes listeners through the stages and process of grieving, Chilombo “celebrates [Jhene] coming into her own personal power,” as stated in a passage posted on the Grammy-nominated singer’s Instagram. Similar to her last project, this album is extremely personal to Jhene. Chilombo, which translates to “wild beast,” is the artist’s last name, and each song was birthed in Hawaii, the place her grandmother resided. Deeply rooted in her culture, family and values, Chilombo removes listeners from the grief and pain of Trip and places them into a world of healing. All of the tracks on the album will feature crystal alchemy and sound bowls, allowing Jhene to incorporate her knowledge on sound healing into her music. Sound healing, or music therapy, a practice the artist has been learning for some time, can be helpful for both physical and mental health. These sounds have been illustrated in previously released songs, some of which will be featured on her newest project.
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