INTERVIEW: New full-length record from R3b3l I

London-based artist Ijah creates music under the name R3b3l I, offering a project that transforms personal perception into immersive instrumental soundscapes. Based in lo-fi, jazz and alternative instrumental music, his work is informed by a lifelong relationship with sound that goes beyond the ordinary; as someone who’s high-functioning autistic, music and noise have always existed as a constant presence in his life, forming an uninterrupted soundtrack that follows him even into sleep. Over time, he’s embraced that experience, allowing it to become the spark for a creative vision that feels deeply personal and still remarkably relatable.

Music ultimately serves as a form of translation R3b3l I, a way of taking sensory experiences that are uniquely his own and turning them into something listeners can enjoy for themselves. His compositions are designed to accompany everyday moments, whether that means studying, travelling through the city or simply finding a moment of stillness at the end of a long day. On the surface, the music feels calm and inviting, but within that gentle exterior lies a wealth of subtle detail that reveals itself over time.

That layered approach has become a defining pillar of his work, leaving space for interpretation, encouraging listeners to project their own emotions, memories and experiences onto the music. After introducing his sound through a trio of singles last year, R3b3l I now arrives with his debut full-length album titled A Different Frequency. The twelve-track outing acts as both a showcase of his artistic vision and a carefully forged journey through themes of growth, determination, self-discovery and purpose.

The album plays out as a story told entirely through melody, rhythm and texture, with each composition representing a different chapter in a larger emotional tale, allowing listeners to build their own understanding of the journey as it progresses. The absence of lyrics becomes a strength, creating room for individual interpretation rather than prescribing a single meaning while musically, the record brings together influences from lo-fi, jazz, soul and modern instrumental music. These elements blend throughout the album, creating an engaging atmosphere while still allowing each piece to establish its own identity.

Set up by “Dance Before the Throne,” the jazzy flutter of bright key tones and flicker of flute leads are met by the mellow taps of percussion, flowing with warm sax lines and pulsing bass notes to form a playful jam that’s memorable and breezy from start to finish. Tracks such as “Elevate” embody forward motion and personal growth, gliding with twinkling piano plinks, record scratches and smooth bass plucks, casting a dreamy soundscape that’s uplifting and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. With “The Wave,” the contrast of piano notes and stabby synth shots is met by pattering percussion to serve up a grooving listening experience that leans into R3b3l I’s beat-driven sound.

“I AM Power” transports listeners with chiming tones and soft crackle while the crisp snap of drums and laid back woodwind delivers a stripped back outing. “The Jazzy Hop” brings rustling percussion and dancing piano lines as warm brass textures add warmth to the composition, showcasing R3b3l I’s creativity and arrangement talent. Buzzy synths and woozy tones coalesce on “Level Up” to deliver a hip hop-driven jam packed full of engaging melodic leads and steady rhythmic march.

One of the album’s highlight moments arrives through “Carousel,” a track that perfectly captures the playful sophistication at the heart of R3b3l I’s sound. Delicate piano plinks flow across a bed of steady clicks and shuffling drums, creating an upbeat groove that feels inviting while warm bass notes and gentle string textures gradually enter the arrangement, adding colour without disturbing its easy-going flow. “Awaken” pairs plucky instrumental pips, deep low end texture and punchy beats to craft a spacious soundscape peppered with intricate melodic ideas and alluring flute elements.

“Heartbeat” leans into a more reflective sphere where graceful piano tones, pulsing drums and vibrant brass tones combine to deliver an infectious rhythm brimming with melodic charm. Closing the album with “Ancestors,” atmospheric piano lines and delicate hi hat taps tumble into a stunning instrumental scene that’s cinematic and mesmeric, concluding R3b3l I’s superb debut record in spectacular fashion.

We caught up with R3b3l I to find out more about his musical journey so far, his debut album A Different Frequency and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with R3b3l I below.

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

I don’t remember a time when music wasn’t there. As far back as I can remember, I’ve always heard rhythms, melodies and patterns in everyday life. Even now, music is something I experience constantly. It’s often playing in my head whether I’m consciously thinking about it or not.

As a child, I didn’t really have the language to explain it. I just knew that sounds, emotions and experiences seemed to connect in ways that felt musical. Looking back, I think making music was less about discovering something new and more about finding a way to express something that had always been there. Creating music eventually became a way of translating those internal experiences into something other people could hear.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?

My influences come from a wide range of artists and genres. I draw inspiration from jazz and soul musicians, djs, alternative/lounge producers and lo-fi from individuals like Robert Glasper, Misha Mullov-Abbado, Lenny Ibizarre, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Cam. For me, these are composers / producers who understand the power of mood and atmosphere. More than any individual artist, I’m inspired by creators who make music that feels honest and timeless rather than following trends.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

Life itself is the biggest source of inspiration. Conversations, personal experiences, moments of reflection and even periods of uncertainty often find their way into the music. Sometimes inspiration comes from observing people, sometimes from nature, and sometimes from simply sitting quietly and paying attention to what’s happening internally.

What do you love about the London music scene?

London is incredibly diverse. You can hear influences from all over the world within a single city. There’s a constant exchange of ideas and cultures that keeps music evolving. I also appreciate that London allows different styles to coexist. There’s space for experimentation, individuality, and most importantly, discovery.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

Somewhere they can slow down. That could be a late-night drive, a train journey, a walk through the city, or simply sitting at home with headphones on. The music doesn’t demand attention, but it rewards it. I think it works best when people allow themselves a moment to breathe.

How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?

I’ve become more comfortable with simplicity. Early on, I sometimes felt the need to add more elements or prove something technically. Over time I’ve learned that emotion is more important than complexity. My music has become more intentional, more spacious and more focused on feeling rather than perfection.

Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?

Honestly, someone who values emotion and authenticity over commercial expectations. If we’re talking dream collaborations, artists like Robert Glasper or Yussef Dayes come to mind because they create music that feels alive, organic and deeply human.

How did you find making your new album A Different Frequency?

It was both rewarding and revealing. Many of the tracks were created at different points in my life, but bringing them together showed me connections I hadn’t fully noticed before. It felt less like creating an album and more like discovering a story that had been forming over time.

What message did you want to get across with this release?

That there is more than one way to move through life. We all have our own path, our own perspective and our own rhythm. The album encourages listeners to trust themselves and find what resonates with them rather than following someone else’s definition of success or fulfilment. In essence, you are the author of your own story, or more playfully, the music is there to help you put those puzzle pieces together.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Lately, I’ve been listening to my own music. It is something quite soothing for me, and a gentle reminder of what I can do when I’m focused, and leading creatively with feeling. I do tend to revisit artists who create atmosphere rather than focusing on any one particular artist. I’m often looking for inspiration in textures, arrangements and emotion rather than genre.

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

I want people to feel something genuine. Whether that’s peace, motivation, nostalgia, reflection or inspiration doesn’t really matter. If the music helps someone reconnect with themselves, even for a few minutes, then it’s done its job.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

It’s been a while since I’ve been to one honestly. I’d like to go to some, now that the album is finished. At the moment, releasing A Different Frequency feels like the performance. These tracks have existed privately for a while, so sharing them with the world is its own significant moment. I’m excited to see where future live opportunities might take the project.

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

I’d choose Robert Glasper, Yussef Dayes and Khruangbin. All three create music that transcends genre and connects with people emotionally. As for location, somewhere outdoors with a natural backdrop. Maybe overlooking the sea at sunset, where the environment becomes part of the experience.

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

Focus on authenticity before audience. Trends will come and go, but honesty lasts. Create the music you genuinely want to hear. Be patient with your development and don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. The most valuable thing you can bring to music is your own perspective.

Finally, what do you have lined up next?

I’m interested in continuing to explore instrumental storytelling and creating music that allows people to bring their own experiences into the journey. This album feels like the beginning of a new chapter rather than the end of one.

Listen to A Different Frequency below