Soundgod Fest Vol IV EP Review: Runtown’s Genre-Defying Return Finds New Feeling, But Still Plays It Safe

To understand the growth of Afropop since the late 2010s, it is helpful to examine Runtown’s journey. From the bright, addictive love story of 2016’s “Mad Over You” to the quiet, emotional reflection of 2022’s Signs, Runtown has always moved on his terms. He’s never been the loudest in the room, but he’s often been one of the most thoughtful. 

After spending the last few years mostly silent, with only a few features and singles, he returns with Soundgod Fest Vol. IV, a six-track EP that feels like a gentle but clear reminder: he still knows exactly what he’s doing. The project is concise and focused, driven by the calm confidence of someone who has spent over a decade bending rules, trusting their instincts, and proving that you don’t have to be flashy to leave a lasting mark. For Runtown, less is still more, and that’s part of what makes him stand out.

“Mood Swings” starts the EP on a soft, thoughtful note. The beat is smooth, and Runtown sings in a gentle voice about how love can be full of ups and downs. He doesn’t try to explain everything—instead, he shows how love can be messy but still beautiful. It’s classic Runtown: quiet, emotional, and sure of himself. It sets the tone for the whole project. “End A Man” changes the mood. Here, Runtown is bold and full of pride, rapping and singing with confidence. He discusses his success and legacy, but not in a loud or boastful manner. Instead, he lets his flow and timing do the talking. He sounds calm but in control, reminding us that power doesn’t always have to be shouted. “Bebe” is a soft and romantic song. Runtown mixes French phrases with smooth Afro-R&B melodies to show his love. The song feels both warm and classy, like a quiet moment between two people. It’s the kind of love song Runtown does best—gentle, honest, and well-written.

“Do Me,” which came out earlier, fits perfectly on this EP. On its own, it was already a good song. However, here it gains new meaning, situated right in the middle of a project about feelings, change, and control. Runtown doesn’t do too much here. He trusts the rhythm and simple words to carry the message. A little more surprise or variety might have made it even better, but the calm is part of the charm.

The best song on the project might be “Dangerous Hearts,” featuring Mr. Hudson. They sample Sade’s “The Sweetest Taboo,” and somehow make it feel both old and new at the same time. The song is slow, dreamy, and filled with emotion. It’s romantic, but there’s also a bit of sadness in it. It connects different places and times with ease, and reminds us why Runtown’s softer songs often hit the hardest.

On this project, Runtown moves between two sides of himself: one that loves comfort and style, and another that feels deeply. On songs like “Mood Swings,” “Dangerous Hearts,” and even “Do Me,” he balances both sides well. But in a few places, like parts of “End A Man”, he falls back on the same tricks. And because the EP is so short, it becomes clear how quickly his style can start to feel a bit too familiar.

Soundgod Fest Vol. IV is a clear message of where Runtown is right now: calm, intelligent, and still in control of his sound. The emotions are real. The sound is clean. And even though he doesn’t take many significant risks, the project feels honest. Still, some songs ask for more, more range, more rough edges, more surprises. He proves he can still glide smoothly. But now, we’re waiting for him to push himself further.

Even with its safe moments, this EP shows more good than bad. In a music scene full of loud songs and flashy beats, Runtown’s soft approach still stands out. His writing is sharp. His voice is steady. And while this project might not change everything, it reminds us why we still care. If his next project mixes this emotional focus with bold new moves, Runtown’s next chapter might be just as strong as his first.

STREAM Runtown - Soundgod Fest Vol IV EP