Few musical groups are capable of transforming a familiar song into something that feels entirely their own, but Abuja-based Kabusa Oriental Choir has built a reputation on doing exactly that. Known for blending rich choral traditions with contemporary African sounds, the ensemble approaches music with an instinctive, almost spiritual creativity. Their latest release, “Folded,” takes an already emotional R&B track and reshapes it into a stirring Afrosoul experience overflowing with warmth, depth, and longing.
At its heart, “Folded” explores the painful aftermath of a breakup—the moment when anger fades, silence settles in, and regret begins to creep through the cracks. The song focuses on that fragile space between needing distance and realizing you may have walked away from something worth saving. It’s a universally relatable feeling, and Kabusa Oriental Choir leans into it with remarkable emotional conviction.
The track opens with a crisp, infectious beat that immediately establishes its groove. Then come the choir vocals—ethereal, layered, and mesmerizing. The voices become the driving force of the song, weaving together a tapestry of sound that feels both intimate and immense. Hypnotic, the arrangement is as if each vocal line is pulling the listener deeper into the song’s emotional core.
What makes this rendition particularly compelling is the way it balances contemporary energy with timeless soulfulness. The production carries the smooth pulse of modern Afrosoul, while the choir’s harmonies evoke something much older and more communal. Midway through, the song takes an unexpected turn as rhythmic vocal chants evolve into a rap-esque section performed collectively by the choir itself. The result is electrifying. The layered delivery creates a dramatic surge of intensity and heaviness that elevates the emotional stakes.
Produced by David Acekeyz and guided by the vision of choir director Austin Nwamara, “Folded” feels more like a complete reinterpretation. The song is tailor-made for late-night drives, quiet reflection, and anyone who has ever wished they could rewind a difficult goodbye. Rich, soulful, and deeply human, Kabusa Oriental Choir’s “Folded” leaves a lasting impression long after its final note fades.
STAY IN TOUCH:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | TIKTOK | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE
Review by: Naomi Joan