Nigerian-Canadian artist TOVA has shared a few new EP called Care PKG. Preceded by the success of his singles “Island” and “7 Days”, Care PKG expands upon the freeing, cathartic sonics of those first two songs for a breezy, genre-defying offering that tugs at the heartstrings throughout. Based in Regina, Saskatchewan, TOVA’s work ethic and ear for unique, emotionally-packed sounds led to his nomination for a Sask Music Award, as well as a nomination for R&B Artist of the year at the 2022 Western Canadian Music Awards. His latest release Care PKG serves as a denouement of the thrills, elation, and angst of summer, as well as being a full-on dedication to love and the multi-dimensional impact of being an immigrant across its five tracks.
Care PKG is a lush yet airy 5-song set that remains versatile across its run-time, as TOVA flirts with influences from a disparate array of genres including alternative R&B, shoegaze, and afrobeats. Refusing to be limited to singular songwriting style or sound, the project oscillates between the haunting and cathartic, and elated and tranquil.
The opener, “Wonder” is an appropriately-titled cut that conveys a sense of rebirth, as if one has awoken in another world. Soaring, dream-like vocal lines float atop sparkling gossamers of guitars woven together in detailed layers, giving the track a rich, immersive feel. “7 Days”, featuring Ajani is equally atmospheric yet more upbeat in pace, with bouncy, flexible percussion and watery keys underscoring the song’s feathery vocals. “Lei’s Lounge” is a poignant and emotive track containing otherworldly production that feels almost like refreshing waves of cold water, as TOVA’s vocals build dynamically until they reach a vibrant crescendo.
Speaking on the inspiration behind Care PKG, TOVA says, “it’s been a time of change and growth for me, and I have been writing how I feel along the way. I’ve made soft, honest and vulnerable music that has been somewhat of a care package for me, and helped me stay in touch with who I am and know that I am ready to share it with people, I am hoping that these songs can be the same thing for other people too.”
Care PKG is the latest artistic statement from Nigeria-born, Regina, Canada-based artist TOVA, a project that refuses to be boxed in to simply one genre or sound, as luscious, vivid soundscapes underscore his expansive vocals across 5 potent tracks.
