Ibeyi & Jorja Smith Share 'Lavender & Red Roses'; A Quintessential Message Disguised As A Love Song

Spiritual, striking and serene, Afro-Cuban twins Ibeyi embody individuality; blending Yoruban music with elements of Western Jazz, Pop and Soul to create moods and soundscapes that overflow with intricacy and emotion. Favoured within the alternative space, the duo are limbering up to unveil their third studio album ‘Spell 31’, a body of work citied by activist and storyteller Janaya Future Khan as “Ibeyi’s boldest offering yet, an antidote to apathy in a divided world”.

The new single ‘Lavender & Red Roses’ follows in the wake of the poignant ‘Sister 2 Sister’ and the striking ‘Made of Gold’, which featured a head-turning appearance from one of the most progressive UK artists to emerge this decade, Pa Salieu. The duo once again turn to a UK innovator, this time in the shape of Midlands soulstress Jorja Smith, who lends her unequivocal and unmatchable vocality to the efficacious and amorous number.

Within the meticulous and graciously crafted narrative, the messages of empowerment and self-care shine through. The three writers delve through desperation and desire, to finally come to the realisation that you can only save yourself, and that others must find their own way out of the darkness.

A subtly powerful track that channels colour and cadence, the artist's benign charisma and candid individuality shines through.

Words by Ben Tibbits