Chasing Tunes Album of the Week: PEMA’s ‘Name In The Sky’
South African musician Adele Fouché, widely known as the vibrant frontwoman of the acclaimed Afrikaans group Saarkie, is embarking on an exciting new journey with her solo debut under the name PEMA. Her highly anticipated album, Name In The Sky, is out now and promises to lead listeners on a transcendent metaphysical folk voyage, exploring themes of spirituality and profound inner connection.
The name PEMA, meaning “Lotus Flower,” beautifully symbolizes this project’s essence—like a bloom rising from the mud, it represents resilience and the exploration of human existence. Through PEMA, Adele Fouché channels raw emotion and powerful storytelling, crafting an album that captures the very soul of the human experience.
Name In The Sky features lead singles like “You See Me” and “Wolves,” which have already garnered significant attention. “You See Me,” inspired by the Netflix series The OA, challenges listeners to explore the realms of their subconscious minds. This track has earned spots on Apple Music South Africa’s New Music Daily and the “Country Musiek” playlist and has been warmly received on local radio, with airplay on stations such as Cape Talk and RSG. The second single, “Wolves,” is a stirring reflection on the human heart, encouraging a return to our authentic, untamed selves amid the chaos of modern life.
In Fouché’s own words, Name In The Sky is an invitation to embark on an inner adventure: “When we move beyond the busy monkey mind, we might be surprised to find a vast, never-ending adventure. It’s like there is a universe within us all, waiting to be explored. We can activate this consciousness in meditation to find what lies deep within our subconscious mind—a connection beyond our everyday understanding of reality.”
The album also includes the contemplative track “Just Breathe,” which delves into the unique essence within each individual: “There is a universe in the eyes—every single person has a unique pair of eyes that carries the marks of who they really are over time.” Fouché’s lyrics are rich with imagery, drawing connections between the human body, the earth, and the cosmos, encouraging listeners to see beyond the surface.
Other standout tracks include “Look Inside,” a reflective piece questioning our perceptions of reality, and “Soles of Your Shoes,” which inspires choosing paths that lead to a more fulfilling life.
Name In The Sky stands as a testament to Adele Fouché’s extraordinary songwriting abilities and her skill in blending harmonious vocals with profound insights. With this album, PEMA is poised to take listeners on a spiritual journey, offering transformative experiences and deep reflections on the essence of being.
TikTok: @pema_africa