There is something magnetic about evenings, that slow descent from day into night where the air feels both heavy and expectant. JOKA’s Sunset EP captures that very feeling. Across five tracks and twelve minutes, the artist invites us into a sonic space that balances gratitude, rhythm, and quiet confidence. It is music for the golden hour, when the light softens and the night ahead still holds promise.
A Beginning Rooted in Gratitude
From the very first line, JOKA sets the tone with humility and intention: “I have respect for women because I was raised by one.” It is more than a lyric; it is a declaration of roots, a reminder of where his sense of purpose comes from. The opener “Respectfully” feels like a dedication not just to his mother but to all women who nurture strength out of softness. It is the emotional grounding before the EP shifts toward movement.
From Reflection to Motion
That transition happens smoothly with “Wishlist” featuring YAD, a song that captures the anticipation of weekend plans and the lighthearted freedom of youth. “Everybody on my wishlist, we gonna meet up on the weekend,” he sings, and the energy shifts immediately. The beat sits at that perfect midpoint, enough bounce to make your shoulders move yet mellow enough to feel intimate. It is the sound of spraying perfume before stepping out, effortless, familiar, and fun.
The collaboration with Osiboy on “No Way” extends that groove into something even more dynamic. There is a clear dancehall touch layered over afro-soul textures, with both voices weaving around each other in fluid harmony. The hook “No way” stays with you not because it shouts, but because it sticks quietly, the way a late-night conversation does. Together they manage to create a duet that feels as natural as it is catchy.
The Heart of the Groove
By the time “Body Yo” arrives, the EP has fully loosened its shoulders. The track is simple, vibrant, and purpose built for dance. JOKA leans into afrobeats tradition without trying too hard to impress, it is just groove, movement, and pulse. There is something refreshing about the way he lets the rhythm speak for itself.
Then comes “Whole Ass Vibe,” and the title could not be more accurate. The song opens with amapiano energy, that deep log drum rhythm, lively ad libs, and hints of traditional vocal ovation that give it both cultural depth and club appeal. It is instantly infectious. If the project began with gratitude, it ends with release, a celebration of joy, community, and pure movement. It is also the track that best embodies JOKA’s range, emotionally aware yet completely unpretentious.
Cohesion and Atmosphere
What stands out about Sunset is how cohesive it feels despite its short runtime. The project flows like an evening unfolding, from thoughtful beginnings to carefree laughter, to the rush of dancing under city lights, and finally, the calm satisfaction of the ride home. The sound is warm and uncluttered, the mixing clean enough to let each layer breathe. You can tell this is music crafted with intention rather than haste.
Even the cover art ties the experience together, a narrow street leading to the sea, golden light spilling between buildings, the day’s noise fading into calm. It mirrors the EP’s rhythm perfectly. This is music for transitions. You can play it while getting ready to go out, during the night itself, or on that early morning walk home when the city is quiet again. It fits all those moments because it is all those moments, reflective, groovy, and real.
Final Thoughts
Sunset does not try to be revolutionary. It does not need to be. Its power lies in its balance, the way JOKA blends vulnerability with rhythm, storytelling with ease. It is an EP that reminds you that music does not have to shout to make you feel alive. Sometimes all it takes is a sunset and a vibe that feels whole.
Invictus Media rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Standout track: Whole Ass Vibe
