Album: Umu Obiligbo – Legendary

The Anambra brothers Chukwuebuka and Ifeanyichukwu, known as Umu Obiligbo, have released “Legendary,” an 8-track solo album featuring only the duo. This decision to produce a full project without any guest artists is significant. Following their successful collaboration “Culture” with Flavour and Phyno, which became widely recognized, and their partnerships with Davido and Larry Gaaga, they return to their roots with “Legendary” — focusing on Igbo storytelling and highlife music. The title of the album holds meaning as their grandfather, Chief Ezigbo Obiligbo, was a celebrated highlife musician, and their father, Chief Akunwafor Senior Obiligbo, also performed. Thus, when they refer to the album as “Legendary,” it reflects their family heritage.

The 8 tracks reflect deep influences from Igbo culture and spirituality, with titles like “Ebube Agu,” “Obi Ocha,” “Sina Chukwu,” and “Ndidi.” The two English-titled tracks, “Trust” and “Balance,” indicate their attempt to express substantial concepts in straightforward language, a practice their grandfather also embraced. Umu Obiligbo received the Best African Group award at AFRIMMA 2020, and their 2020 album “Signature” kept traditional highlife music relevant for a younger audience. “Legendary” continues that mission.

Listeners are invited to share their thoughts on which track from the album resonated with them the most.