Release date: September 3, 2023

Genre: Jazz

From: UK

Label: Native Rebel Records

Why you should listen: Little is known about Kofi Flexxx, though they are signed to Shabaka Hutchings label Native Rebel. I have a suspicion it may be Shabaka himself, considering the intense, rhythmic, and tribal sound of this project as a whole, as well as the features throughout its 43-minute runtime. billy woods appears with an incredible verse on “Apothecary”, which sets the tone for the album beautifully. The incredible instrumentation throughout the album is exceptional and utterly hypnotic, with moments like “By Now (Accused Of Magic) featuring Anthony Joseph being riveting and captivating, as well as the cinematic “Babylon Dun Topple.” The wind instrumentation throughout is stunning, as it meanders throughout this dark, desolate soundscape. “Increase Awareness featuring ganavya” is stunning and spiritual and possibly my favourite on the album. ELUCID’s verse on “Show Me” featuring ELUCID is exceptional too, with the sluggish beat giving space for the talented emcee to colour the space with his incredible words. “Fire” closes the album out in an emotive and soulful way, with incredible piano keys and flutes creating a reflective and peaceful energy. Flowers In The Dark is a stunning body of work from an elusive yet fascinating artist. Kofi Flexxx really came through with some incredible rhythms on their debut album.

The album: