Akala has dropped a new track called ‘Giants’, from his forthcoming album 10 Years Of Akala.
Teaming up with Kabaka Pyramid and Marshall, ‘Giants’ is a party banger, coupled with a deeper social message. The track was premiered with The Guardian last Friday and additionally received its radio premiere with Mistajam on Radio 1 Xtra. ‘Giants’ is also Charlie Sloth’s ‘Record of the Week’.
Initially, Akala had started working on ‘Giants’ with London-bred producer, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Marshall. It was a mutual respect that drove Akala and Kabaka together, having been long time fans of each other’s work.
Akala said: “The track came about as a collaboration between myself and Marshall and when I reached out to Kabaka Pyramid, who ironically had just listened to my Fire In The Booth Pt. 4, he understood the concept of the track and was eager to lay a verse, despite being in the midst of a USA/European tour.”
‘Giants’ pays homage to the legendary figures that have helped paved the way in so many ways in communities across the world. Akala explains: “’Giants’ is a track about pioneers and foundation-layers, those who have paved the way politically, culturally and musically in a positive way for the world that we inhabit today.”
Without the giants that have gone before and paved the way creatively, or made sacrifices to create social change, we would not be here doing what we are doing. In these politically tumultuous times, where artists seem to reflect that reality less and less, we need new giants more than ever before.
The reggae-inspired musical direction of the song also gives us a taste of what we can expect from Akala’s next album. After over ten years in the industry, it is evident that Akala is one of the best wordsmiths of our time. There is no doubt that his music will continue to positively impact on communities across the world, as he cleverly puts across his political and social stances.
‘Giants’ is available to download on September 16. 10 Years of Akala will follow on September 23.
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