Asake’s third album, Lungu Boy, marks a bold attempt to expand his musical boundaries, but it falls short of the unprecedented trifecta many fans had anticipated. Despite his previous success with a fusion of Amapiano, Fuji, and hip-hop, this album sees Asake venturing into new sonic territories that, for the most part, don’t align with his strengths.
The album, intended to reflect Asake’s global rise, is characterized by mid-tempo tracks infused with Spanish guitars, jazz horns, and dance rhythms. However, the production often fails to complement his unique delivery, leaving some songs feeling lackluster. The absence of long-term collaborators like Olamide Baddo and Magicsticks is noticeable, as the album struggles to capture the same spark that defined his earlier work.
Songs like “MMS” with Wizkid and “Mood” showcase Asake’s attempt at versatility, but they don’t quite measure up to his previous hits. Tracks like “Suru,” featuring Stormzy, and “Skating” highlight a departure from his signature sound, but they lack the energy and creativity that fans have come to expect. Even collaborations with global stars like Travis Scott on “Active” and Central Cee on “Wave” only partially redeem the album.
While Lungu Boy contains moments of brilliance, particularly in tracks like “Uh Yeah” and “Fuji Vibes,” it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity for Asake. The album’s ambition to go international results in a dilution of the raw, streetwise energy that propelled him to fame. Fans hoping for another groundbreaking project may find themselves returning to his earlier albums for comfort.
In summary, Lungu Boy is an album that demonstrates Asake’s willingness to evolve, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark. The album is likely to achieve commercial success, but critically, it falls into the “Victory” category with a Pulse rating of 6/10.
