From Nigeria and
now living in Scotland, Eloho Jocelyn Efemuai, known
simply as Eloho (it means “prosperity”), is a singer, worship pastor, and presently
part of the worship team at The Junction Church in Aberdeen. Her debut solo album Arise blends
CCM melodies with Afropop rhythms.
The highpoint is
its title track and single, a song that encapsulates the album’s thematic and
musical expressions. “You Are (My God),” a well-executed duet with
Nigerian singer-producer Akinwunmi Nathan OluniyiAkiremi, aka FLO, is a close
second because of its breezy arrangement and passionate message. It could
easily be a single.
“Only You,” with
its lovely harmonies, is a fine example of the album’s melodicism and “Down at
Your Feet” captures the interplay between CCM sweetness and the muscular
Afropop rhythm. “Great and Mighty” is power praise with a throbbing
beat. Eloho’s musicians lay a muscular foundation, the bass player
especially.
Nature may abhor
a vacuum, but it loves a good sing-a-long, and “The Shanana Song” fills the
bill on Arise. The sha-na-na chorus is antiphonal and catchy.
Eloho’s distinctive patois, which reflects her African heritage, colors
her singing and spoken declarations.
Rhythm and
praise enthusiasts, and particularly those who enjoy the European gospel sound
produced by artists such as Sam Adebanjo and DTWG, will find Arise friendly,
cheerful, and accessible.