The ever-shifting Malawian music landscape of hip-hop still has once-in-a-lifetime artists and rappers who are known for their unmatched talent & lyricism. One of such nature is Sage Poet, whose name is synonymous with profound introspection and poetic prowess.
“Eden’s Enigma,” Sage Poet’s latest opus, unveiled itself to the world on January 21, 2024. This instrumental hip-hop album serves as a testament to Sage Poet’s multifaceted talents, both as a lyricist and a producer. Inspired by the groundwork laid by his previous release, “12 Petaled Lotus,” and drawing anticipatory energy from his upcoming project, “Keepers Of The Garden,” “Eden’s Enigma” (available for purchase via Bandcamp) promises a sonic journey unlike any other.
With a career spanning nearly two decades and boasting over 10 albums, Sage Poet has been carving out his own distinctive niche, earning accolades as one of the genre’s most insightful wordsmiths. It’s not just rap or rhymes when it comes to Sage Poet, there is depth of layers to his music.
His collaborative endeavours include Divine Dynasty, alongside African King Fre$h from Zambia, with notable projects such as “Future Ancestors” and “Emerald.” Moreover, he’s a vital member of the Sirius Beings collective, alongside luminaries King Kananji, African King Fre$h, and Q Aura.
The creative process behind “Eden’s Enigma” delves into the depths of self-discovery, eschewing conventional formulas in favour of a more organic approach. For Sage Poet, music transcends mere material gratification; it embodies a divine purpose, a sacred vessel through which he channels his creativity. As he reflects on the album’s genesis, Sage Poet emphasises the importance of intuitive creation, allowing the music to flow naturally from within. Something you pick up on when you listen to his catalogue.
Thematically, “Eden’s Enigma” explores the symbolism of serpent-like deities across diverse cultures, unravelling their significance as potent symbols in various traditions. Each track is named after a serpent-like feminine deity, echoing the album’s cover art, which depicts “Bunzi,” a serpent water spirit and goddess of rain revered by the Woyo people of the Kingdom of Ngoyo.
As listeners embark on this auditory odyssey, they will be captivated by the impeccable flow of the tracklist, which weaves a narrative tapestry even without vocals and lyrics. Sage Poet’s minimalist production style provides ample room for the poetry to flourish, transforming each composition into a canvas for his boundless creativity.
One significant moment in the creation of “Eden’s Enigma” occurred during the meticulous sequencing of the final tracklist. For Sage Poet, this process was pivotal, as it ensured that the music conveyed a cohesive story, resonating with listeners on a profound level.
As “Eden’s Enigma” takes its rightful place in the annals of Malawian hip-hop history, Sage Poet’s legacy continues to evolve, leaving an indelible imprint on the genre’s ever-expanding tapestry. Through his music, Sage Poet invites listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery, to unravel the mysteries of existence, and to embrace the enigma that is life itself.
What's Your Reaction?
