Kenyan percussionist Kasiva Mutua has released her debut album Desturi (tradition).
The 11-track album is a celebration of African heritage and resilience, exploring themes like African identity, the power of love, women rights and spirituality. Each song pulses with the essence of Africa – a celebration of what makes the continent and its people unique, even as we adapt and evolve in a changing world.
Kasiva who is stepping into an extraordinary new chapter shared what her debut album symbolizes. “Desturi is like a birthing ceremony for me, where I finally share my heart’s deepest conversations, all while honouring the rhythm that has always guided me,” she said. “Desturi is where my silent conversations, curiosity, and the unspoken thoughts come alive. It’s a pathway of looking at our traditions and hence our identities; choosing what serves us, and giving ourselves permission to simply – become.”
‘Twende Mbele’ is a heartfelt instrument-laden track is an anthem of empowerment and unity celebrating African culture, leadership, cohesion and resilience. Amid the recent unrest witnessed in major parts of Africa, this song serves as an uplifting and motivational anthem, encouraging people to move forward with determination.
Kasiva says, “I wrote this song as a call for Africans of all backgrounds to keep moving forward socially, economically, culturally and environmentally. Every step forward contributes to progress, leading to victory, economic liberation, peace, stability and prosperity.”
Through its compelling rhythms and evocative melodies, Desturi redefines what African music can be – rooted in heritage yet daringly progressive. It’s a testament to the continent’s enduring creativity and cultural heartbeat.
‘Ndikweteela’ draws from the rhythmic influences of maloya music from La Réunion, coastal Kenya’s chakacha traditions and isukuti beats from Western Kenya–showcasing a captivating fusion of cultural heritage and modern innovation.
The album’s songs reflect the lives and experiences of Africans, exploring themes of loss, love, celebration and traditional ceremonies. ‘Aoko’ is a heartfelt tribute to a life never lived but deeply cherished. Through tender lyrics and gentle melodies, inspired by a close friend’s painful experience, captures loss, forgiveness and the enduring bond between souls. It offers a space for reflection and healing while honoring a baby girl who appeared in a dream with a message of comfort.
From the intricate call-and-response traditions of East African music to the layered rhythms of West African drumming, Desturi is a sonic tapestry of the continent’s vast rhythms and sounds. Finger-picked guitar melodies echo the storytelling of the past, while clap-laden rhythms and modern production breathe life into an album that feels timeless and forward-looking. Kasiva Mutua’s angelic voice, paired with her rhythmic genius and a newfound mastery of melody, marks this album as a breakthrough project.
Kasiva, who headlined the main stage at Sauti za Busara 2025 festival in Zanzibar, says, “I am so ecstatic, grateful, and so proud of my band and I. We put in beautiful, diligent work into the preparation for this festival, and our performance was on point. Returning to Sauti Za Busara with my band after being here four times backing artists like Kidum and Fadhilee Itulya is truly a testimony of the consistency and love I have for music and African music to be particular.”
Sauti Za Busara is renowned for being a centre stage for rich African beats and rhythms. This year’s festival took place at the Old Fort in Stone Town, Zanzibar from February 14th to 16th.
Known as one of the most dynamic percussionists in Africa, Kasiva’s evolution into a singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer reveals an artist in full bloom. She is redefining her artistry and setting the stage for a transformative journey in East African music and Desturi album showcases Kasiva’s evolution as a storyteller and innovator. It blends African traditions and ceremonies with rich contemporary narratives and musical sounds that transcend borders.
Kasiva is a trailblazer in every sense. Her ascent from percussion prodigy to multi-instrumentalist and vocalist has been extraordinary. A TED Global Fellow and recognised as an OkayAfrica 100 Woman, she has performed on global stages alongside icons such as Kirk Whalum and Oliver Mtukudzi.
With Desturi, Kasiva redefines the boundaries of African music – rooted in tradition while embracing fearless innovation. Her debut album is not just an artistic evolution but a declaration of cultural progression. Blending rhythm, melody and storytelling, Kasiva’s artistry is poised to leave an indelible mark on the global music landscape.
Album tracklist:
- Desturi
- Twende Mbele
- Amalemba
- Mbio Za Sakafu
- Ndikweteela
- Al Nuba (feat. WD Abbo)
- Korosho Na Pipi (feat. Brian Sigu)
- Aoko (feat. Lulu Abdalla)
- Huruma
- Shalala
- Mwaula
