Discovering new music is one of life’s genuine pleasures, especially when those discoveries come through sharing tastes with loved ones. Being introduced to artists who might have flown under the radar is an exciting experience. This was the case with Marian Mereba, known simply as Mereba, an artist brought to my attention, and whose work is genuinely captivating. Her album, The Jungle is the Only Way Out, is a rich tapestry of sound, weaving together atmospheric harmonies, relaxed rhythms, powerful spoken-word pieces, and lyrics that explore love, heartbreak, and ambition with a thoughtful and unique artistic vision.
Choosing a single track to spotlight from such a strong album was a delightful challenge, but “Sandstorm,” featuring her frequent collaborator J.I.D., consistently stood out. This song, at its core, is a breakup song, yet it’s crafted with such exquisite artistry that it elevates the listener even within its melancholic themes. Set against a backdrop of a subtle lo-fi beat, shimmering jazz piano chords, and delicate strings, Mereba and J.I.D. create an intricate and interwoven dialogue of memory and regret. Their voices, sometimes solo, sometimes harmonizing, complete each other’s thoughts like former partners still deeply attuned to one another’s minds. Despite its title, “Sandstorm” isn’t a tempest of anger or accusation, but rather a reflection on a past storm, now viewed with the poignant calm of honest reflection. Mereba sings of past friction, “I remember that you got a temper, and I got no filter,” while J.I.D. reflects on the relationship’s inherent imbalances, “I couldn’t mold you ’cause I didn’t own you.” It’s a remarkably refined and emotionally resonant duet about love’s complexities, reminiscent in its delicate balance of heartbreak and harmony to the classic duet “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers.”
Yet, “Sandstorm” offers a sense of hope, not for rekindling lost love, but for personal growth beyond it. J.I.D. asserts his independence with “I’m on my own two now,” and Mereba concludes with a sentiment of amicable closure: “Take a piece of my love, we’ve been through enough stuff… Keep the peace, it’s all love, don’t need no spite / Now we need to grow up and away.” There’s a palpable sense of mutual respect and acknowledgment of individual autonomy. The relationship’s end isn’t portrayed as destructive, but as a catalyst for strength and wisdom. The “sandstorm” metaphor evolves: from the wreckage of the storm, there’s a process of rebuilding, rethinking, learning from past errors, and moving forward to create something new. This theme of resilience and renewal extends beyond romantic relationships, offering a broader message of hope and adaptation applicable to many of life’s challenges.
The music video for “Sandstorm” enhances the song’s reflective mood. Mereba’s spoken-word intro, “these mirrors know our secrets,” sets the stage for the visual theme. The video elegantly explores the idea of reflection, showing the former lovers primarily separated and alone in the present, their togetherness only appearing in mirrored images. This visual representation poignantly captures the idea that only reflections now hold the memories of their love. The entire presentation is beautifully melancholic, a perfect soundtrack for moments of introspection.
For those wanting to delve deeper into Mereba’s artistry, The Jungle is the Only Way Out offers a wealth of musical treasures beyond just “Sandstorm.” “Get Free” is a quietly powerful anthem about pursuing dreams and principles without compromise. “Souvenir” is an uplifting, dreamlike journey through vibrant soundscapes. “Planet U” showcases Mereba’s lyrical dexterity in a captivating love song. And “Dodging the Devil” is a compelling spoken-word piece addressing societal pressures and the importance of inner resilience. To experience a broader spectrum of her work, Mereba’s NPR Tiny Desk Concert is highly recommended, offering a fantastic introduction to her unique musical world. Mereba is an artist whose future work is eagerly anticipated.
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Explore more of Mereba’s music:
Listen to the Spotify playlist here.
Watch the YouTube playlist here.
