SAMAKA is the latest instrumental album by Manila-based artist and producer RuiijiKun. The title Samaka (“sama ka?”) translates from Filipino as “wanna join?” or “come join” – a phrase used as an invitation.
The album begins with its title track, Samaka, which nudges listeners to let the music guide them into an immersive experience. Standout tracks like ‘Omen‘ seamlessly blend mellow Rhodes chords with groovy bass lines, while pieces like ‘Perfect Days‘ and ‘Fluid Reflections‘ evoke warmth and serenity. In contrast, tracks such as ‘Two Tales‘ and ‘Oui’d‘ introduce elements of unease and tension, creating a rich and dynamic emotional spectrum.
RuiijiKun describes the creation of SAMAKA as both self-confrontational and exploratory process: “It felt like wandering or going on a long trip – trying every route, constantly departing and arriving – only to realize you’ve already arrived at where you always wanted to be: the present moment (‘Yzz Ok‘).“
As his first project release in two years, SAMAKA offers a glimpse into RuiijiKun’s personal and creative growth. He envisions the music as a journey within and SAMAKA is an offering of an intimate exploration of the self through sound.