Nai-Jah & The Kwenu Band - Democrazy (Khanti Records)

The musicians of The Kwenu Band, including Guillaume Monier's distinctive sousaphone, were also present on 'Masquerades', but this time they are credited on the album cover.

Stylistically, Nai-Jah isn't afraid to stray from the reggae path, and on 'Democrazy', he draws from his Nigerian roots with the robust afrobeat track 'I Am Nigeria', an ode to the country's ethnic diversity. We dive into calypso with the delightful 'Home Sweet', and finally, there are the distinctly South African vibes of 'Village Boy'.

'Democrazy' was produced by Clémént Thouard, aka Tamal, who also invited his musical partner in crime Marcus Gad for 'Chapters Of Our Lives,' elevating the track entirely into his musical universe.

Also deserving your attention are 'Queens Night Bus', where Nai-Jah narrates the experiences of a homeless person trying to sleep on a night bus despite the disapproving looks and comments from fellow passengers; the up-tempo 'King Amongst Thieves', a sharp condemnation of those who seem to always be above the law in our capitalist, grab-what-you-can society; and 'Childhood', an emotional plea to let children simply be children.

'Democrazy' is perhaps a bit less surprising than predecessor 'Masquerades', but still makes for an excellent follow-up album!