Joshua Idehen’s ‘Mum Does The Washing’ – A Poetic Exploration of Resilience and Love

Joshua Idehen’s, Mum Does The Washing, EP is a masterful blend of spoken word and indie-electronic sounds, crafted with producer Ludvig Parment to create a meditative listening experience. Known for his collaborations with artists like Sons of Kemet and Daedelus, Idehen brings his powerful storytelling to this four-track EP, inviting listeners to explore themes of resilience, connection, and self-discovery.

Opening with “Mum Does The Washing,” Idehen uses the imagery of daily chores to explore life’s wisdom through a mother’s teachings. The track blends humor and reflection, presenting insights that are simultaneously accessible and profound. Idehen’s poetic lines and conversational tone make this song feel like a cherished memory, and it has already gained support from prominent DJs like Huw Stephens and Jamz Supernova. It’s a beautiful start that sets the stage for the rest of the EP.

“Could Be Forever” shifts the focus to love’s self-sacrifice, inspired by real-life encounters that left Idehen in awe. The song pays tribute to the acts of devotion he observed in an immigrant father and an elderly husband caring for his wife. Idehen’s lyrics capture the beauty and humility in these stories, creating a touching, human moment that feels as universal as it is personal.

The focus track, “Tactics For Survival,” is a haunting indie-dance piece that explores coping mechanisms and resilience. Idehen collaborated with pianist Hanakiv, whose delicate keys provide an arresting backdrop, adding layers of emotional depth. The beat is hypnotic, building into a meditative groove that reflects the track’s themes of survival and adaptation. Idehen’s lyrics are minimal yet potent, capturing the collective experience of navigating hardships.

Idehen ends with a reflective cover of “Once In A Lifetime,” adding a fresh perspective to Talking Heads’ iconic track. His version is introspective and soulful, with a gospel choir that transforms the chorus into a moment of communal celebration. Idehen’s rendition asks, “How did I get here?” as he contemplates his journey from London to Sweden, finding a balance between gratitude and the ever-present question of purpose.

In, Mum Does The Washing, Joshua Idehen combines the power of poetry with mesmerizing electronic beats to create an EP that is as thought-provoking as it is rhythmic. It’s an impressive work that invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, offering comfort and connection through the power of words and sound.

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