Asake’s highly anticipated third studio album, Lungu Boy, showcases the Nigerian star experimenting with new sounds and collaborations. However, the results have received mixed reviews compared to his previous critically acclaimed works.
The album’s title “Lungu Boy” refers to his Lagos roots, it also refers to street life. But the music often prioritizes international appeal over cultural identity. Asake incorporates hip-hop, R&B, UK rap, dance hall, collaborating with artists like Travis Scott, Central Cee and Stormzy.
The album’s intro “Start” samples Asa’s “Eye Adaba” before transitioning to an energetic tempo, setting an ambitious tone. Highlights include the introspective “Suru” featuring Stormzy, the confident “Mentally”, and the infectious “Uhh Yeah”. However, tracks like “Skating” and “I Swear” come across as lazy attempts at a new style.
“Lungu Boy” represents Asake’s bold attempt to evolve artistically, but the execution is inconsistent. While the album has its moments, it lacks the cohesion and impact of his previous works.
As Mr. Money continues his ascent, refining his new sonic direction while staying true to his roots may be the path to even greater success. The album is a promising step in that journey, even if it doesn’t fully stick the landing.
