Love in Beats

Few artists boast a résumé as storied as Omar Lyefook, MBE, the British soul pioneer who has garnered admiration from legends like Stevie Wonder, Erykah Badu, and Common. His eighth studio album, Love In Beats, further cements his legacy, blending genres and collaborators to create a project as rich and eclectic as his career.

A product of the musically gifted Lyefook family, Omar’s artistry is deeply rooted in heritage. His father, Byron Lyefook, played alongside Bob Marley and The Rolling Stones, while his siblings, including the Grammy-winning Scratch Professer, carry the torch of musical innovation. This familial connection shines through in Love In Beats, a collaborative effort recorded primarily at Omar’s Backayard Studio in South London.

Where 2013’s The Man leaned on classic soul foundations, Love In Beats expands Omar’s sonic palette. The album intertwines soul, funk, Caribbean rhythms, and electronic textures, with touches of zouk and jazzy waltzes. Tracks like “Doobie Doobie Doo” reveal his playful experimentation, while “Feeds My Mind” with Mayra Andrade blends Cape Verdean influences into a modern groove.

Collaborations enrich the album further, with Leon Ware’s velvety tones, Robert Glasper’s jazz mastery, and spoken word interludes from The Floacist. Natasha Watts, rapper Ty, and Guadeloupean singer Jean-Michele Rotin add further depth, resulting in an album that feels as global as it is personal.

Describing the project, Omar says, “This album is a labour of love between myself and my Grammy award-winning brother, Scratch Professer. Powerful songs over mesmerising beats in the evolution of omarmusic and Brothers sound.”

Love In Beats is more than just an album; it’s a celebration of Omar’s remarkable career and the ever-evolving soundscape of British soul. A must-listen for fans old and new, this record is a testament to Omar’s enduring originality and talent.