Aisha Badru’s The Sun Still Rises, out November 29 via Nettwerk, is a masterfully crafted journey that bridges soulful folk with wellness-inspired sonic artistry. Her second full-length record offers a delicate balance of vulnerability and resilience, drawing one into a soundscape designed to soothe and inspire. With a blend of acoustic instrumentation, minimalist arrangements, and thoughtful lyrics, Badru proves her unique ability to create music that feels deeply intentional and meaningful.
Opening with a tender intensity, “A Little Mad” confronts life’s frustrations head-on. Through its plaintive melodies and introspective lyrics, Badru’s delivery captures the universal experience of grappling with modern challenges as she creates a reflective space encouraging one to find strength within.
With its acoustic underpinnings, “Life to Live” is an uplifting moment on the album. With the organic arrangements paired with Badru’s soaring vocals, the message of resilience shines through and is a gentle reminder to embrace the present.
With its Americana-inspired tones, “In the Making” stands out as a subtle departure from Badru’s signature folk style. Produced by Nashville-based Josh Frigo, the track’s warm textures and intricate layers highlight Badru’s versatility. While “Boundaries” is anchored in campfire-style folk, the soft strumming and understated production mirror the quiet strength of setting personal limits and the importance of self-preservation.
Reflecting on perspective and acceptance, the hauntingly beautiful melodies of “Side of the Moon” evoke a sense of longing, while the restrained instrumentation allows the weight of the lyrics to settle in hushed quietude. The minimalist approach of “Tunnel Vision” emphasises clarity amid chaos. Badru’s ability to convey profound ideas with simplicity shines here, making it a standout moment of quiet determination.
The title track is a poetic arc from despair to hope. Written during a reflective afternoon, it carries an air of optimism wrapped in classic folk textures. The gentle “om” at the end offers a meditative close to this heartfelt piece. Born from a personal tragedy, “Thankful to Be Here” transforms grief into gratitude. Its hushed pop nods are paired with lyrics that find light in the darkest moments. The song reveals Badru’s gift for finding beauty in life’s complexities.
As the album nears its end, “Finding Our Way” offers a glimpse of hope for the future. With idyllic melodies and affirming lyrics, it serves as a comforting conclusion, encouraging one to look forward with optimism. Closing the album, “The Calm (664Hz)” track harnesses the healing power of sound. The minimalist, lyric-less composition feels meditative and allows one to quiet their minds and reflect on the journey the album has taken them on.
What sets The Sun Still Rises apart is its intentionality. Badru’s songwriting process, often squeezed into fleeting moments amid her life as a mother, imbues the album with an authenticity that feels effortless. Her ability to craft songs with emotional clarity and melodic purity reflects both her artistry and her empathy.
Her collaboration with Josh Frigo adds another layer of depth to the album. His expertise in creating binaural beats aligns seamlessly with Badru’s vision of music as medicine. Together, they’ve crafted a collection of tracks that are both calming and transformative.
Aisha Badru’s The Sun Still Rises reminds us that music can be a powerful force for healing and connection. It’s an album that encourages one to find stillness, embrace hope, and navigate life’s uncertainties with grace.
