DRB Lasgidi’s long-awaited debut album is almost here. Comprised of members Boj, Fresh L and Teezee, DRB has been key players in pushing the Alte culture with influence spreading across Nigerian culture, art and music. And after recording strides in their solo careers, the trio have reunited to release their album “Pioneers” on Friday, May 1 after teasing it for so long.

As a forerunner for the album, DRB has released its latest single off the imminent tape titled ‘Softly’. A gorgeous and innately catchy African love story, the track also features original artwork created by renowned new wave Nigerian visual artist Anedu Edozien, who was also responsible for the album artwork. The single artwork was inspired by Roy Lichtenstein’s classic ‘In The Car’ while the album art entitled ‘Midnight Friends’ portrays the community, style, culture, cool kids, creativity as well as the rebelliousness of Lagos culture.

Speaking on the track, TeeZee says “softly in Nigeria represents being gentle. It’s a term that’s used for endearment. For example, when someone looks great or if someone is having a good time and relaxing you can say they are soft. Softly identifies calmness and gentleness, while delivering something fresh and brand new.

“We describe the song as an African love story and it’s coming at the perfect time – just before Easter. We wanted to mix the original sounds of afro beat but infused with the new wave of the Alté sound. The producer on the track Pheelz has made hit records through Nigeria like Billionaire from Teni The Entertainer.”