Moving between electronic soul, jazz and alternative R&B, Belgian singer, pianist and composer Oriana Ikomo steps beyond the boundaries of her earlier work on MOTEMA.
Meaning “heart” in Lingala, MOTEMA takes its name from the principle that shaped its creation: trusting instinct over expectation and making music without worrying about where it might fit. A jazz vocalist and pianist by training, Ikomo first introduced herself through the intimate, voice-and-piano-led compositions of THE LOVE I HAD (2022) and THE HEALING (2024). While those releases revealed an artist exploring her musical and songwriting identity, MOTEMA feels like a more fully realised statement.
The foundations remain, but the palette has widened considerably. Electronic production, alternative R&B, soul and jazz converge around jazzy piano chords, horns and expansive choir arrangements, with rhythm taking on a more prominent role. There is a newfound appetite for scale and experimentation, balanced by moments of restraint and vulnerability. Rather than settling into a defined sound, Ikomo embraces the contradictions and eclecticism that reflect her own personality.
Developed over two years alongside co-producers Jasper Segers, Ashley Morgan and Pepijn Leenders (Pippin), the album brings different perspectives into her creative process without losing its personal character. Guest appearances from BEX and Fred Gata add further dimensions, particularly on “ME AND MY GIRLS”, an exuberant celebration of women that draws on gospel influences.
Drawing inspiration from a wide range of contemporary and classic artists, from Erykah Badu and D'Angelo to Sampha, FKA Twigs and SAULT, Ikomo uses these influences as starting points rather than blueprints. The result is a record that moves freely between organic instrumentation and electronic textures, intimacy and expansiveness.
Despite its stylistic breadth, MOTEMA is ultimately an optimistic record. Its original working title, I'M DONE CRYING, offers a glimpse into the emotional shift at its centre. More than a departure from her earlier work, the album captures an artist growing increasingly comfortable with uncertainty, following ideas wherever they lead and finding freedom in not having to choose a direction.
