Album Review: Heyouki, Hey, You K?

By Resonate | March 19, 2021

Words by Kris Griffiths

Lucid introduces two vocalists featuring alongside Heyouki in the form of T L K and Ramelle Williams.
The humble, self-awareness of the lyricist and soulful delivery dominates the track and is reminiscent of stalwarts such as Erykah Badu and Ms Lauryn Hill. There is no juxtaposition of sound between any of the seven members of Heyouki; each have their role, and each excels in their execution. Third track, PeopledemSheepledem, mixes it up with a more eclectic combination of sounds. Huge wah bass reaches out from beneath wide expansive chords, while smooth keys provide the perfect foundation for impactful prose. Closing out this sophomore release is Joyful Morning, semi-serious in its contents, and more laid back than former tracks. Much to the contrary of the commentary found along the track, the guitar solo is unexpected when it pops, as is the final crescendo of an album that does nothing but demonstrates the talents and sociopolitical awareness of its creators. Hey, You K? is impressive at every turn, is well-tempered and executed with precision.  Each track offers a message of love, integrity and unity in a down to earth manner that is relevant to all of us, now more than ever. Heyouki are sure to find their future releases met with hungry eyes after this delicious offer.

The self-defined, neo-soul Bristol seven piece that is Heyouki have stepped up to the plate with their 2021 release Hey, You K?. Politically motivated, emotionally mature and sonically impactful with every move, Heyouki seamlessly blends soulful grooves with progressive, intelligent playing, far beyond their previous release. Opener, Phases (I know ur gonna get it), exudes the maturity the music demands of its listener consisting of tight and calculated bass, but also radiating sleaze beneath synthesizer, piano and horn melodies. Messages of forgiveness and self-love close out the track; words we can all identify with.

7/10

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