Sampha – Cumulus / Memory
London singer-songwriter and producer Sampha releases “Cumulus / Memory,” marking two years since his acclaimed album “Lahai.” The six-and-a-half-minute two-part suite started as the first song written for “Lahai” but remained unfinished until now, taking two years to complete while he toured his live show.
Co-written with Romy from “the xx”, who provides backing vocals, the self-produced track was also worked on with El Guincho. Sampha and Romy have collaborated before, releasing an André 3000 cover and the single “I’m On Your Team” last year. The backing tracks and genres shift across the two parts, but Sampha’s tone stays consistent throughout.
“Lahai,” named after Sampha’s grandfather’s first name and his own middle name, explored connections to others, personal history, and something larger. Where his Mercury Prize-winning debut “Process” dealt with grief and loss, “Lahai” celebrated acceptance of being human. A deluxe version arrived in 2024 with four additional songs, including “Satellite Business 2.0” featuring Little Simz.
Since “Lahai,” Sampha has appeared on albums by Little Simz, John Glacier, and Richard Russell’s Everything Is Recorded project. He recently performed with Little Simz at London’s O2 Arena. “Spirit 2.0” from “Lahai” landed at number 49 on various year-end lists for 2023.
Sampha remains one of the more deliberate artists working today, making each release feel considered rather than rushed. “Cumulus / Memory” fits that approach, offering a meditative continuation of his exploration into memory and connection.
