Review: Wizkid Soundman EP 2 Replicated His Classic Style Of Music
Review: Wizkid’s ‘Soundman’ EP 2 Replicated His Classic Style Of Music. A Review of Wizkid's Soundman EP 2.
Wizkid, the Afrobeat sensation hailing from Nigeria, has once again graced us with a musical masterpiece in his EP, "Soundman” Volume 2. The first edition was released at the intersection of 2019 and 2020 —the collection of tracks that cracked some global framework for Afrobeats before it was cemented with Made In Lagos in 2020. The Grammy-winning singer and African superstar released his fifth studio album 13 months ago, "More Love, Less Ego." – an album that failed to live up to the success of his classic body of work.
This failed project sent the singer back into a creative slump. His attempt was nothing more than trying to replicate the success of his iconic "Made in Lagos." After more than a year break, coupled with the demise of his mother in 2023, he returns with the release of the second volume of "Soundman, EP." This EP features two artists, with Wizkid singing alone on two songs.
On this new project, ‘Soundman’ Vol 2, TrendyBeatz analyses how the EP is a short project that opens with a sonic landscape that immediately grabs the listener's attention with quality production that is nothing short of classic and exceptional. Each track on the EP has rich, layered beats, seamlessly blending traditional Afrobeat rhythms with modern influences. The EP boasts a fusion of genres, from the unmistakable Afrobeat foundation to subtle hints of reggae, dancehall, and pop. The production team, including the likes of P.Priime, Big Fish, Olajumoke Olayiwola, and Theelement deserves commendation for crafting a soundscape that's both sophisticated and accessible.
The EP starts with ‘Ololufe’, which sees Wizkid squaring up with the brilliant vocalist Wande Coal. Over a piano-powered production, the two singers seem to pay homage to different girls. They adore different Femme Fatales in the song. They range from Folashade and Titilope. Wande Coal finds his way around this song more than Wiz. The sparse state of the lyrics allows the instrumentals to flow better. It’s an amapiano-produced track, but the flow dovetailed to Afro-pop.
The second track on the EP, ‘Diamonds’, is a melodious bop, where he got his groove back. Wizkid gets his groove back on "Diamonds," and the backup singer also helps by amplifying the message. The track is a laid-back masterpiece that allows Wizkid's vocals to shine. The smooth production creates a perfect balance between the rhythmic beats and Wizkid's soulful delivery.
"Energy" finds the singer in his unserious mode; one time, he is serious with his lines, and the next minute, he poorly articulates his lines. It takes the EP to another level with its pulsating rhythm and hypnotic melodies. Wizkid's vocal versatility is on full display here, effortlessly navigating the shifts in tempo and intensity. The track is a standout moment showcasing Wizkid's ability to create music transcending borders.
Wizkid is known for selecting the right collaborators, and "Soundman" Vol 2 is no exception. The featured artists complement Wizkid's style, adding new dimensions to the overall sound without overshadowing the prominent artiste. On the last song, ‘IDK’, Zlatan Ibile dominates and outshines Wizkid on "IDK". As a rapper on the song, he understands the assignment better. His intro and the first four lines are all shades of brilliance.
With the release of the new project, it looks like the days of crooning to win over lovers and ‘She Tell Me Say’ seems to have gone; now, you get to hear Wizkid, the message seeps in, and he sometimes articulates his lyrics well. No doubt, this EP sounds created for the Nigerian audience. The 2010s lovers of Wizkid music complain about his last two albums with some of them leaning toward western pop, right now, Wizkid is back to base.
Grief and love hold the core theme of this EP together, and they also dictate the message Wizkid and his colleagues attempt to pass out to his old and new fans. For the Nigerian audience, this is the comeback they have all been waiting for; it's also a reflection of the brilliance and talent of Wizkid. Wizkid's lyrical prowess remains a cornerstone of his artistry, and with ‘Soundman’ Vol 2, he explores themes of love, grief and life experiences. Wizkid effortlessly weaves his narratives through each track, infusing his lyrics with authenticity and emotion.
The guest appearances on "Soundman" Vol 2—Wande Coal and Zlatan—are carefully curated, enhancing the overall experience. P.priime, the primary producer on the EP, with three songs produced, contributes significantly to the project, adding unique elements that complement Wizkid's style rather than overshadowing it. This EP is undoubtedly a triumph, showcasing the evolution of Afrobeat and its global influence. The EP's seamless fusion of genres, stellar production, and Wizkid's charismatic delivery make it a standout release. While every track might not be an instant classic, unlike IDK featuring Zlatan, they form a cohesive and engaging musical journey.
What’s your favourite track on this EP? What’s the better project between the Soundman Vol 1 and Vol 2? Let’s know your thoughts.
This failed project sent the singer back into a creative slump. His attempt was nothing more than trying to replicate the success of his iconic "Made in Lagos." After more than a year break, coupled with the demise of his mother in 2023, he returns with the release of the second volume of "Soundman, EP." This EP features two artists, with Wizkid singing alone on two songs.
On this new project, ‘Soundman’ Vol 2, TrendyBeatz analyses how the EP is a short project that opens with a sonic landscape that immediately grabs the listener's attention with quality production that is nothing short of classic and exceptional. Each track on the EP has rich, layered beats, seamlessly blending traditional Afrobeat rhythms with modern influences. The EP boasts a fusion of genres, from the unmistakable Afrobeat foundation to subtle hints of reggae, dancehall, and pop. The production team, including the likes of P.Priime, Big Fish, Olajumoke Olayiwola, and Theelement deserves commendation for crafting a soundscape that's both sophisticated and accessible.
The EP starts with ‘Ololufe’, which sees Wizkid squaring up with the brilliant vocalist Wande Coal. Over a piano-powered production, the two singers seem to pay homage to different girls. They adore different Femme Fatales in the song. They range from Folashade and Titilope. Wande Coal finds his way around this song more than Wiz. The sparse state of the lyrics allows the instrumentals to flow better. It’s an amapiano-produced track, but the flow dovetailed to Afro-pop.
The second track on the EP, ‘Diamonds’, is a melodious bop, where he got his groove back. Wizkid gets his groove back on "Diamonds," and the backup singer also helps by amplifying the message. The track is a laid-back masterpiece that allows Wizkid's vocals to shine. The smooth production creates a perfect balance between the rhythmic beats and Wizkid's soulful delivery.
"Energy" finds the singer in his unserious mode; one time, he is serious with his lines, and the next minute, he poorly articulates his lines. It takes the EP to another level with its pulsating rhythm and hypnotic melodies. Wizkid's vocal versatility is on full display here, effortlessly navigating the shifts in tempo and intensity. The track is a standout moment showcasing Wizkid's ability to create music transcending borders.
Wizkid is known for selecting the right collaborators, and "Soundman" Vol 2 is no exception. The featured artists complement Wizkid's style, adding new dimensions to the overall sound without overshadowing the prominent artiste. On the last song, ‘IDK’, Zlatan Ibile dominates and outshines Wizkid on "IDK". As a rapper on the song, he understands the assignment better. His intro and the first four lines are all shades of brilliance.
With the release of the new project, it looks like the days of crooning to win over lovers and ‘She Tell Me Say’ seems to have gone; now, you get to hear Wizkid, the message seeps in, and he sometimes articulates his lyrics well. No doubt, this EP sounds created for the Nigerian audience. The 2010s lovers of Wizkid music complain about his last two albums with some of them leaning toward western pop, right now, Wizkid is back to base.
Grief and love hold the core theme of this EP together, and they also dictate the message Wizkid and his colleagues attempt to pass out to his old and new fans. For the Nigerian audience, this is the comeback they have all been waiting for; it's also a reflection of the brilliance and talent of Wizkid. Wizkid's lyrical prowess remains a cornerstone of his artistry, and with ‘Soundman’ Vol 2, he explores themes of love, grief and life experiences. Wizkid effortlessly weaves his narratives through each track, infusing his lyrics with authenticity and emotion.
The guest appearances on "Soundman" Vol 2—Wande Coal and Zlatan—are carefully curated, enhancing the overall experience. P.priime, the primary producer on the EP, with three songs produced, contributes significantly to the project, adding unique elements that complement Wizkid's style rather than overshadowing it. This EP is undoubtedly a triumph, showcasing the evolution of Afrobeat and its global influence. The EP's seamless fusion of genres, stellar production, and Wizkid's charismatic delivery make it a standout release. While every track might not be an instant classic, unlike IDK featuring Zlatan, they form a cohesive and engaging musical journey.
What’s your favourite track on this EP? What’s the better project between the Soundman Vol 1 and Vol 2? Let’s know your thoughts.
Source: TrendyBeatz
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