‘Temple Vol. 1’: Temple T Crafts an Afro-House Project Rooted in Rhythm and Emotion.

By Emmanuel Daraloye

Released on January 24, 2023, Temple Vol. 1 is a genre-blending body of work by Temple T, a producer, DJ, and record producer whose sound comfortably sits at the intersection of Afrobeat, house music, and Amapiano-influenced electronic rhythms. Born Abraham Temitayo Olayinka in Abuja, Temple T draws from African rhythmic traditions while embracing global club culture, resulting in a project that feels both culturally grounded and internationally positioned.

The opening track, ‘Dance,’ immediately establishes the sonic direction of the project. Built around a classic Afrobeat bounce, the record is driven by repetitive vocal chants that create a communal, call-and-response energy. Log drums are introduced deliberately to deepen the groove, lending the track an Amapiano-inspired swing without shifting away from its Afrobeat core. One of the most distinctive elements of the song is the use of a whistle motif, creatively reworked into a synth sound that becomes a signature melodic identity for the track, adding character and memorability to its arrangement.

‘Bajeola,’ which quickly emerged as an instant fan favourite, leans more heavily into Amapiano influences while maintaining a soulful undertone. The track is guided by warm, jazz-influenced chords that give it emotional depth and a reflective quality. Rather than taking centre stage as a conventional vocalist, Temple T samples his own voice throughout the record, using it as a rhythmic and melodic texture woven into the instrumental. The synth work is expansive and expressive, gradually building note by note, creating a sense of movement and atmosphere that speaks as much to the soul as it does to the dancefloor.

Collaborations & Technical Contributions

Temple Vol. 1 is further strengthened by carefully chosen collaborations that enhance both its musical and technical depth. Queen Halima, also known as Victoria Ogechukwu Egbogu, features as a co-producer on the project, contributing to its rhythmic layering, melodic phrasing, and Afro-electronic texture. Her involvement is especially noticeable in the Amapiano-leaning arrangements, where groove and subtle vocal elements are used to heighten emotional engagement without overcrowding the mix. The project is mastered by Sandra Amartey, whose work ensures a clean, balanced, and cohesive listening experience. The masters translate effectively across club sound systems, streaming platforms, and live performance environments, reflecting a level of technical quality aligned with international release standards.

Verdict

Temple Vol. 1 presents Temple T as a producer with a clear creative vision and a strong understanding of contemporary Afro-electronic music. Rather than relying on trend-driven production, the project prioritises groove, texture, and atmosphere, allowing each track to unfold naturally. Its blend of Afrobeat rhythms, house structures, and Amapiano influences positions it as a thoughtful contribution to the evolving Afro-house landscape, while also signalling Temple T’s potential for continued artistic growth and wider international relevance.