The role of an album’s opening track should forever be to grip the listener. Owelu Dreamhouse have absolutely nailed the brief on their debut self-titled album. “Kellen” has this dramatic edge, the kind you cannot push pause on. But more on that later.
A band of two parts, vocalist Nkechi Anele and multi-instrumentalist Nic Ryan-Glenie, are no strangers to the platform after their first single “Tourist” scored coverage in the back half of last year.
Those tapped into Australian bands may recognise the pair as central figures in Melbourne/Naarm soul outfit Saskwatch. After years of relentless touring, the band called it a day in 2019, and in the aftermath, Nkechi stepped away from music altogether for five years.
Fortunately, Nic lived up the road from Nkechi, and before long, the magnetic pull between two people in sync drew them back together. Nkechi was newly motivated to explore her Nigerian roots, while Nic was itching to experiment with fresh production approaches. Before long, Owelu Dreamhouse was born – a duo with an altered sonic outlook, one that explores family heritage and prioritises playing fun and free.
“Kellen” is a fitting jumping-off point. Founded on stirring string sections and backed by a supporting cast of percussion, funky bass, jubilant trumpet and flute, it makes the heart swell. For me, repeat listens dredge up buried memories, both sweet and sad. From go to woe, not a single lyric is uttered, but that only gives each instrument more time centre stage. Close your eyes as the strings and mellow snares drift along; it borders on a religious experience, if you ask me. There’s a strong cinematic charge to “Kellen”, as if I’m watching a decade of a protagonist’s life unfold on screen in just a few seconds. The trials and tribulations lifted by this gorgeous bit of music.
The Owelu Dreamhouse album travels oceans, from Australia to West Africa, South America, and Europe. Walk the plank with “Kellen” today.
