Shush Wap by Ibibio: A Hidden Gem from '95 That Still Hits Different
Alright, let’s talk about Shush Wap by Ibibio. Released in 1995 under the UK-based label Artificial Flavours, this album is one of those chill, kinda trippy electronic records that just sneaks up on you. It’s got a mix of downtempo vibes and trancey feels, making it perfect for late-night headphone sessions or zoning out after a long day. And yeah, it might’ve flown under the radar back then, but trust me—it’s worth revisiting.
First off, big shoutout to Paul Hilken for the sleeve design. The artwork’s got this minimal yet kinda mysterious vibe that matches the music perfectly. But let’s get into the tracks, because that’s where the magic happens.
One track that sticks with me is “Chine-Impulse.” It starts off slow, like you’re walking through fog, but then these lush synths creep in and take you somewhere else entirely. There’s this hypnotic rhythm that builds without ever feeling rushed—just smooth as hell. What makes it memorable? Honestly, it’s how it switches between mellow and intense without you even realizing it. By the time the track fades out, you’re left wondering, “Wait…how did we get here?” Kinda like life, right?
Then there’s “Koan-Vision,” which hits different in its own way. This one feels more meditative, almost like it’s guiding you through some kind of mental maze. The layers of sound are subtle, but they work together so well that you start noticing new details every time you listen. Like, okay, maybe I’m reading too much into it, but it feels like the kind of song that could soundtrack a sci-fi movie scene where someone figures out the meaning of the universe or something equally deep.
“Mahu-Journey” rounds things out nicely, though it doesn’t grab me quite as hard as the other two. Still solid though—definitely adds to the overall flow of the album.
What’s wild about Shush Wap is how timeless it feels. Even though it dropped in the mid-’90s, it doesn’t scream “dated” at all. Maybe that’s because downtempo and trance have always been genres that focus more on mood than trends. Or maybe Ibibio just knew what they were doing when they put this thing together. Either way, it’s an album that rewards patience—you can’t just throw it on in the background and expect it to blow your mind immediately. You gotta sit with it.
So yeah, if you’re into electronic music that leans more introspective than in-your-face, give Shush Wap a spin. Oh, and fun fact: apparently, the name “Ibibio” comes from a Nigerian ethnic group. Not sure how much that influenced the sound, but hey, it’s a cool nod to cultural roots.
Final thought? Listening to this album feels like finding an old mixtape in your attic and realizing it’s way better than anything on the radio today. Weird flex, but I’d totally recommend pairing it with a cup of tea and zero distractions.
