released: november 8, 2024

genre: spoken-word / electronic

from: london, uk

label: self-released

a few thoughts: spoken-word artist joshua idehen has been on my radar for a few years now via his collaborations with sons of kemet on their last two albums, and daedelus via their collaborative album holy water over sons. he’s been making powerful, introspective music for a while now (learn to swim, a mixtape is also stellar), and his new ep mom does the washing is another incredible project that continues to showcase his versatility as an artist. “mom does the washing” opens the project in a humorous yet informative tone, as joshua describes ideologies in the context of mum doing the washing. “male feminism. that one time i did the washing i told everybody i did the washing. i blogged about it, bragged about, took a selfie, insta story. went on tv, won an oscar. went on fortnight, did a dance. i am an ally. hashtag me too” and “zionism. you shoved your mum into the washing machine and the spinning made her dizzy. and that dizziness made her vomit. and you point at that vomit and call it anti-semitism” are some of the fantastic lines throughout the track, all told over some varied, dance-centric production from ludvig parment. “could be forever” is an emotive, soulful cut, with joshua’s storytelling and introspective lyricism complementing the soulful, delicate yet punchy and dance-heavy production. on “tactics”, joshua asks us our tactics for survival are, as he reflects on how people deal with and cope with difficulties on a daily basis. the punchy groove is infectious throughout as well. “once in a lifetime” features the social singing choir, and is a cover of the talking heads classic. the gorgeous piano keys and subtle electronic rhythms make for an immersive and powerful listen, as joshua’s artistic vibe translates poignantly. it’s a really fitting way to close this lush and beautiful body of work. i’m drawn to joshua’s energy throughout the ep, and can’t wait to hear what the talented creative has coming next!

the album: