Ta-ku & Wafia: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Cameron Robert | November 7, 2016 — The chemistry between Australian singer-producer Ta-ku and his fellow Aussie singer-songwriter Wafia becomes apparent the instant you hear their voices intertwined in song. On their first collaborative EP, (m)edian, they draw on their individual experiences to touch on subjects like compromise in relationships as they trade verses and harmonize over hollow melodies.

Ta-ku and Wafia live within the sonic landscape of artists like Drake or Bryson Tiller, but their style puts them in a world all their own. With production characterized by weary low-end rumbles and resonant keys, the two float above the music, playing off each other's harmonies. Fortunately for us at NPR, they took a moment to grace our Tiny Desk with a stripped-down, intimate performance of three songs from (m)edian.

(m)edian is available now:

SET LIST:
"Treading Water"
"Meet In The Middle"
"Love Somebody"

MUSICIANS:
Ta-ku (vocals); Wafia (vocals); Sam Kuzich (drums); Will Langa (keys)

CREDITS:
Producers: Cameron Robert, Niki Walker; Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin; Videographers: Niki Walker, Nicole Boliaux; Production Assistant: Colin Marshall; Photo: Raquel Zaldivar/NPR.

[KevinSimpson]

There is something very pure about this performance. It has been 8 years, this is still one of my favourites.

[paulanthonysayer]

These guys perform with such modesty, harmony, precision and passion. I can't but fall in love with this sound.

[Damianzw]

Cmon you tube why didn't you show me this sooner love you long time ta-ku❤

[SNDRUNKNWN]

Such a good pair of voices and he's so talented at production, so much respect for them

[realtalk]

The compliment eachother so well, both beautiful harmonious voices ! Please do a album 2024

[spencerfriedman]

that last song tho. wow. powerful duo all in all

[MajorPickleSwag]

Can't believe I'm rediscovering this again. One of my favorite tiny desk concerts easily.

[coley]

Its been 3+ years familiar with Ta-Ku but never really heard him sing. Very Impressed. Thank you!

[TonyMac]

All these years & I just realized Ta-ku can sing

[jackarbuckle]

Ta-Ku helped me through so much. Keep on doing what you're doing Ta-Ku. Beautiful Set.
Kia Ora

[yioda]

Omg! Rudimental + Ta-ku + Wafia= my dream

[TatjanaAlexT]

I only discovered Ta-Ku 6 days ago but I am entirely obsessed ever since and listen to "Songs to break up to" every day..all the feels! seriously!! and he sings himself too! wow!!

[ElevateAestheticsbyGissele]

I love his voice so much. So unique, so raw. Obsessed 🥰

[dscoder]

Oh come on. Producing, photographing, singing. Ta-ku is good at everything.

[davegutierrez]

This is about the 80th time I watch this video in the last 2 - 3 days, all 3 songs are great, but I have to say when Ta-Ku starts singing on the third song, it takes me away, far away from any pain or anxiety i'm usually plagued with. I've gone back to that verse over and over and over again.

Thanks,

[dareusdesign]

So that's what Wafia looks like. She's gorgeous. Issa wife. Issa Wafia.

[depuggo]

Ta-ku is one of my favorite producers and I had no idea his live session would be like that. His melodies are so powerful that they work great even when stripped to the minimal, like in this performance.

[philab]

The year 2018 and I still come back to watch this. It's timeless <3

[dben]

You don't look bad for having your eyes closed brah. Brilliant sound, love your music. Appreciate you and love you both, big up the respect. See you soon in Oz :-)

[peacelove]

"Love Somebody" is my favorite also. I could see this one being a hit!