Album of The Month: Now More Than Ever, We Need Some Chilombo

Infusing crystal alchemy singing bowls into the entire album, Jhené Aiko’s Chilombo is absolutely an embodiment of the healing this world is going to need. Now, more than ever we need to be living with the mantra of “Happiness Over Everything” because our lives and strength will be tested. Spiritual health is as vital as our physical one, and Jhené Aiko has built both her career and now her latest album off that realization.

Jhené Aiko – Happiness Over Everything (H.O.E.) ft. Future, Miguel

At 20 tracks, I cannot pick a favorite song in Chilombo. Admittedly, I have been listening to “Tryna Smoke” during this global quarantine. Still, each track can fit into any mood, but the important thing is that they all bring a sense of light to how moody we can be. Our moods and morals ebb and flow as we go through situations. Whether it is the guttural truth of being “Triggered” by an ex’s mere presence on this earth or the hard work of “Surrender” to the power of time, every song flows with a classic R&B swag turned into a mantra; because what better than old-school love to ask modern listeners whether they love themselves.

Jhené Aiko – Lotus (intro / Audio)

The ultimate truth of Chilombo is how you give and receive love from others is only a manifestation of how you give and receive love from yourself. In essence, you get what you deserve not because you actually deserve it but you feel you do. For me, one of the most poignant tracks to the notion of manifestation comes with “Summer Interlude 2020.” It is delicate, nostalgic, and has such a beautiful verse “And it feels like sometimes I cry/Cause I feel so good to be alive.” Overall, the album is nothing short of simple and stunning; filled with poetic verses and Jhené’s signature, sweet vocal tone. For More Information On Jhené Aiko Chilombo Click Here.