After catapulting onto the local music scene with Ben Dey and the Concrete Lions, singer Ben Dey embarked on an exciting solo adventure last year in which he desperately sought within himself to create music that was both a testament to his roots and full of meaning.
‘In Flow’, the singer’s debut solo album, is steeped in traditional African folklore and seeks to capture the mysticism of the continent. The title is an acknowledgement of the fundamental process of creation and seeks to merge inner and outer worlds. ‘In Flow’ is grounded in the idea that truth is fundamentally simple and uncomplicated, and as such, the songs are more spontaneous improvisations than planned arrangements.
Working with a team of incredible talents, ‘In Flow’ is a collaborative piece featuring different artists and producers from the Limpopo region. The album is rooted in friendship and consequently grounded in the principles of Ubuntu. The songs are an emergent consequence of synchronous moments in time and space. Consequently, the album is an invitation to work with nature and find paths through or around challenges – without resorting to force.
The songs on the album were structured in informal studio spaces in Limpopo and were later mixed and mastered at Sunset Recording Studios in Franschoek, Cape Town.
The album has already spawned the singles ‘Natural Mystic’, a cover of the popular Bob Marley song, and ‘Honour’ – a track that’s the ultimate celebration of Africa and its distinct sounds and melodies.
The album, a labour of love for the star, is certainly some of his best work to date and we’ve got our eyes set firmly on what Ben will do next.
In the meantime, enjoy ‘In Flow’ below and read more music news here.
