Nigerian Alternative R&B singer, Givens released highly anticipated sophomore mixtape, “Her Dark Instruments” (a.k.a HDI) on April 7th after teasing fans with the release of two singles off the project – ‘Vices’ and ‘Unholy’.
The self-produced nine-track project features collaborations from reputable R&B artistes based in strategic locations – RnB Princess (Lagos, Nigeria), Brum3h (Abuja, Nigeria), and Yinka (Los Angeles, U.S).
“Her Dark Instruments” showcases Givens‘ unique sound, blending Afro-R&B, Alt-R&B, R&B/Soul, Trap and Rock. His vocal range and songwriting prowess takes listeners on a journey through the complexities of modern-day relationships. The project covers themes of love, lust and infidelity, using conversation-like scenarios over banging 808’s, overdrive guitars, and trap drums.
The mixtape opens with ‘Believer’ a mid-tempo Afro-R&B track that sets the stage for the world of lust and debauchery that Givens explores throughout the project. The seductive ‘Clockwork’, the vulnerable ‘Jealous’, and the transitions throughout the project are just a few more highlights of the project.
The tape also includes voice note recordings from women who share true-life comments and opinions on love, lust, infidelity and jealousy. This was Givens‘ way of doing justice to the project title by making women (and the experiences around them) the central focus.
Listen here.