The one and only Y’Akoto quietly (at least for this outlet) released a fourth solo album this year, her first independently produced one, after cutting ties with the major labels. While her previous releases were distinctively her and have brought her sizable commercial success, it feels like this album titled Pt. 4 The Witch may be her most complete and unique work yet.
Driven by the experience of the majors and freed from their production line, she was able to truly follow her own directions, it seems. Being guided by well chosen producers certainly didn’t hurt: she worked with Nabeyin whose accolades include grammy nominations and works with Kanye West, Travis Scott, Drake, and others as well as songwriter and producer Dan McDougall, who currently drums with the charming Liam Gallagher.
Enough name dropping, this album really speaks her language and is carried by her vision and navigation. It’s a great and enjoyable listen from first to last, a true album. Attached below is the opener London, neatly showcasing her amazing voice and sense of direction, songwriting and tempo. A marvelous LP.
She will be touring Germany next year, playing Munich, Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne and more in February and March. Listen to Pt. 4 The Witch on Spotify or Apple Music.
