Known for his ability to transcend genres, mau’s latest work further cements his place in the ‘Nu Nairobi’ movement, blending alternative Afro-fusion and R&B in a perfect package. With a seamless interplay of hip-hop, soul, and electronic elements, ‘Soft Steps’ explores love, growth, and resilience in a way that feels both familiar and revolutionary.
The focus track, ‘Fly’ featuring HiHi, exemplifies mau’s softer, more reflective side. Here, he steps back from heavy basslines and rapid-fire rap, opting for a more restrained, melodic approach. The track opens with atmospheric synths that lend a serene, dream-like quality, pulling listeners into a hazy soundscape where mau’s voice effortlessly glides over the beat. His melodic rap and tender hooks add layers of depth, while HiHi’s vocals bring a contrasting yet harmonious texture. The track breathes with a sense of airy spaciousness, creating a contemplative mood that highlights mau’s ability to balance intricate production with raw emotion.
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Elsewhere on the EP, tracks like ‘Remind(h)er’ featuring MAUIMOON and ‘By Your Side’ with Sute Iwar and NAiLA showcase mau’s versatility. ‘Remind(h)er’ combines afro-infused rhythms with a modern R&B groove, where mau’s soft-spoken verses intertwine with haunting background vocals, evoking a sense of longing and introspection. ‘By Your Side’ leans into afro-pop, yet retains mau’s signature atmospheric touch, grounding the upbeat track in soulful melodies and layered instrumentation.
Throughout ‘Soft Steps’, mau from nowhere’s evolution is palpable. He’s moved from the raw, introspective sounds of his early work to a nuanced, melody-driven narrative style that connects on a universal level. This shift reveals a maturing artist unafraid to explore vulnerability and the quieter moments of growth. Mau’s approach feels intentional and patient, as if each song is a soft step forward—an invitation for listeners to slow down and embrace the journey. This EP is more than a collection of tracks; it’s a story of transformation, told through mau’s distinctive and refreshingly unhurried sound.
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