Jhene Aiko is the latest artist to join the work-from-home edition of NPR’s Tiny Desk (Home) Concert. Thanks to the global pandemic, fans of the NPR series can expect more virtual performances from their favorite artists, and Aiko didn’t disappoint bringing her signature peaceful energy to the room.
Backed by an ensemble of musicians (all wearing masks), the Grammy-nominated singer sailed through an eight-song melody that included “W.A.Y.S,” “Summer 2020,” and “Lotus (Intro)” from her Chilombo album, as well as older songs like “Do Better Blues,” and “To Love & Die.“
The 32-year-old singer translated the tranquility and sensuality from Chilombo into the live music session. Before beginning her performance, Aiko is seen using sound bowls, which are featured on every track on Chilombo, as she explained to Billboard earlier this year.
“[This album] is an introduction to sound bowls for people who don’t really know about them — this is me introducing my newfound love,” she explained. “The bowls I use are crystal alchemy sound bowls made from gemstones and infused with things like platinum or made out of rubies and diamonds — and all of these different elements and properties contribute to their healing factors. I basically was recording and had a session at my house where I just played different bowls to the music; every chakra has a note that corresponds with it.”
Watch Aiko’s performance below.