released: march 21, 2025

genre: hip-hop

from: new york, usa
based in london, uk

label: ghostly international

a few thoughts: goya gumbani has been showcasing his talents as an emcee and storyteller for a few years now. with each and every release, the london-based brookyn emcee has sharpened his pen and continued to expand on his sonic palette over records that are full of emotion, introspection and soul. warlord of the weejuns is his new album, a 16-track masterpiece of reflective, introspective storytelling and gorgeous, soulful production. after the “weejuns (intro)” featuring will stowe, the album kicks off with the inspiring and lush “beautiful black”, where goya flows effortlessly over a gorgeous beat and reflecting on his state of mind and setting the tone for the rest of the project. “one hand washes the other” featuring lojii reminds us of the importance of community and remembering where we come from and how to love and respect those who have brought us into the world. the lavish keys and soulful energy of “crossroad(s)” is incredible, while fatima’s sweet-as-honey vocals on “firefly” are stunning in every sense of the world. the punchy energy of “nothin’ to say” is fantastic, while “manuva(s)” featuring joe armon-jones has one of the prettiest melodies and energies, aided by joe’s stunning piano melodies throughout, but also goya’s introspections. “driftin interlude” features a stunning vocal contribution from pearl de luna, while “chase the sunrise” featuring yaya bey, lojii and fatima is another gorgeous moment on the album, with a stunning instrumental and lyrics speaking on the chase for peace of mind, amidst life stresses. “lizards/dancin’ with the devil” featuring jaydonclover and the hotel is another stunning track with a dynamic and groovy beat, with lavish locals and an energy that feels soothing and inviting. “mind, body, spirit” featuring seafood sam and franky bones is a smooth, groovy track with goya gumbani again speaking on ways he’s been able to keep his mind, body and spirit healthy. the gospel-looped, drumless closer “forever pooh” is a fitting way to conclude this rich and emphatic album, from one of the most consistent and inspiring artists working today. warlord of the weejuns is a cohesive and incredibly sequenced body of work with a sound that is soulful, funky, and full of life, with goya gumbani painting this rich sonic canvas with his relatable introspections and ponderings on life.

the album: