Liv.e and Karriem Riggins to release first album “The Pleasure Is Yours”
In the realm of new music, a fresh band has emerged onto the scene. Liv.e, a free-spirited underground R&B singer, recently revealed her collaboration with the talented drummer and producer Karriem Riggins to form a new duo known as GENA. Their first single “Circlesz” made its debut last month, generating excitement among fans eager to hear more from the duo. Today, GENA is back with another captivating track and has announced their plans to drop their first LP next year.
The name GENA stands for “God Energy, Naturally Amazing,” paying homage to the duo’s spiritual and awe-inspiring approach to music. Additionally, their name is a nod to Gina from the television show Martin, with the phrase “Damn, Gina!” serving as part of their moniker. Making their first appearance at the Detroit jazz festival earlier this year, GENA’s sound is a fusion of astral, psychedelic jazz, a departure from the mainstream R&B sound typically associated with artists like Kehlani. Riggins sets the tone with a distinctive, rhythmic beat, allowing Liv.e to effortlessly drift into the celestial realms of music, choosing to ride the groove rather than conform to traditional song structures.
The duo’s upcoming full-length album promises to showcase more of their experimental and collaborative approach, with contributions from standout musicians such as Isaiah Sharkey, James Francies, and Telemakus. Accompanying the announcement is the release of the music video for “HOWWEFLOW,” directed by Mackai Sharp. The video captures GENA navigating through a chaotic office environment, adding an intriguing visual element to their music.
The tracklist for their debut album, “The Pleasure Is Yours,” offers a glimpse into the eclectic mix of songs that fans can expect from GENA. From tracks like “Who’s Got a Problem With Gena” to “omo iya ati baba,” the album promises a diverse and engaging musical experience. Scheduled for release on February 27th via Lex Records, the album is highly anticipated among music enthusiasts eager to delve into GENA’s unique soundscape.
In a music landscape dominated by familiar genres and established artists, GENA emerges as a breath of fresh air, offering a new perspective on the intersection of R&B, jazz, and psychedelic music. With their debut album on the horizon and a growing fan base eagerly awaiting their next move, GENA is poised to make a significant impact on the music industry with their innovative approach and distinctive sound. Stay tuned for more updates from GENA as they continue to redefine the boundaries of contemporary music.