Senegalese singer-songwriter Alassane Badboy and Mozambican electronic producer Double Drop have released ‘Jinn’, a six-track project that connects West African vocal traditions with Southern African Afro-Tech and electronic production.
The work was created between Dakar, Maputo and Italy. It began as a remote exchange of ideas and grew into a full-length project before the two artists met in Genoa, Italy, for several weeks of studio sessions.
Wolof language and the Jambaar concept
The album draws on the Wolof concept of the Jambaar, a resilient life warrior. Its narrative explores identity, perseverance, ancestral wisdom and self-discovery.
All vocals are sung in Wolof. The project treats the language as a cultural archive and a tool of decolonisation, while demonstrating that emotion can cross linguistic barriers.
Track themes and production
Across its six tracks, ‘Jinn’ moves through spirituality, mythology, Pan-African unity and collective healing. “Niaay” opens with a meditative tone, “Mame Coumba” carries mystical storytelling, “Kutlhu” brings celebratory energy, and “Jamm Ay” offers introspective reflection.
The production blends Afro-House, Afro-Tech, traditional African melodies and contemporary electronic music, aimed at both dance floors and reflective listening.
Independent release
‘Jinn’ is released independently through Xibalo Records. The release is framed as a statement on artistic ownership, highlighting African artists building their own creative ecosystems and collaborating across countries without traditional industry gatekeepers.
