Since the release of her majestic 2019 debut tape, Fallin’ Apart, Xenia Manasseh has made a name for herself as an avatar of sorts for the musical eclectism that Nairobi’s alt scene has grabbed attention for, folding elements of shoegaze and electronica into her expansive style. She’s since brought her signature smoky vocals, lilting cadences, and forward-thinking soul-pop hybrid to collaborations with Tay Iwar (“STONES”), Juls (“Say You Love Me”), and Mr Eazi (“Cherry”). It is only right that Xenia’s 2022 project is another creative breakthrough, as she partners with talented producer and EA Wave associate, Ukweli, for a five-song inquiry on desire. Famed for his stripped-down approach to music-making, Ukweli’s minimalist sonic palette serves as the lodestar for Maybe, propelled by Xenia’s forthright songwriting and self-assuming candour. Across the project, Xenia delicately explores the depths of companionship and romance. “Étoile” is a haunting examination of loneliness blown up over a subterranean mix of piano keys and rolling percussions, while “Love Me or Leave Me” is a mellow plea for clarity. Even in the midst of all this emotional turmoil, Xenia still manages to powerfully channel the sheer heart-tugging allure and dizzying effect of attraction on the project’s titular track. “Lost” and “Circidian Riddim,” the pair of songs that close out Maybe are vibey, slow burners that offers a vision of a Xenia at peace with her choices.