Sasha Dawe’s upcoming 5-track EP Here I Am marks an exciting evolution in his artistry, blending the warmth of modern folk with the rhythmic pulse of his Namibian roots. Following the success of his debut album The Boat, Dawe delves deeper into themes of homecoming, resilience, and the wisdom passed through generations, all while continuing to forge a unique musical identity that crosses boundaries.
The lead single, “Because We Forgot,” serves as an invitation into Dawe’s world—a sonic exploration of folk storytelling laced with contemporary blues and African influences. The track, imbued with joyful guitar melodies and playful backing vocals, feels both reflective and uplifting, capturing the free-spirited nature of folk music while embracing the vibrancy of Dawe’s cultural heritage. The song’s infectious rhythm and percussive flourishes echo the timeless energy of artists like Dawes and John Martyn, yet it’s undeniably stamped with Dawe’s own distinctive style.
Dawe’s upbringing in the isolated Namibian wilderness infuses his music with a richness that cannot be replicated. His blend of old-school folk influences, such as Leonard Cohen and Cat Stevens, alongside his own African flair, creates a mesmerizing soundscape that feels at once timeless and contemporary. There’s an undeniable magic in the way he connects the dots between two worlds—his personal history and his musical evolution.
The accompanying music video for “Because We Forgot” enhances the song’s charm, juxtaposing scenes filmed against the stunning Namibian landscape with intimate moments captured in Dawe’s home studio. This visual juxtaposition mirrors the song’s duality—carefree yet introspective, bold yet tender.
With Here I Am, Sasha Dawe proves once again that he is a modern-day folk innovator, blending poetic lyricism with an expansive musical landscape that will appeal to fans of Jack Johnson, Cat Stevens, and Jeremy Taylor. This EP promises to be a standout moment in Dawe’s journey—one that’s as personal as it is universally relatable.
