Review: Wizkid & Asake's 'REAL VOL 1' - No Surprises in Expected Collaboration

Review: Wizkid & Asake's 'REAL VOL 1' - No Disappointment in the Expected

The highly anticipated collaborative EP 'REAL VOL 1' from two of Afrobeats' biggest stars, Wizkid and Asake, has finally arrived. As with many of Wizkid's recent projects, this release was preceded by its share of controversy, notably Seun Kuti's face-off with the Wizkid FC fanbase. However, for discerning listeners, the outcome was entirely predictable, adhering to Wizkid's established sonic blueprint over the past five years.

A Familiar Sonic Landscape

Since the release of his acclaimed fourth album 'Made In Lagos' in 2020, Wizkid has consistently delivered music characterized by calm, collected, and laid-back melodies paired with lush production. His subsequent two LPs and one EP have firmly established a comfort zone from which he shows no intention of departing. 'REAL VOL 1' continues this trend, offering a sound that is both sufficient and enjoyable, yet undeniably predictable.

For some listeners, this familiarity is comforting, while others might crave more innovation. Your appreciation of the EP will largely depend on which side of this divide you find yourself. The opener, 'Turbulence', sets the tone with its strikingly tame approach, welcoming those who embrace Wizkid's measured melodies that gently probe the beat.

Asake's Adaptation to Wizkid's World

Many fans hoped that Asake's involvement would inject a dose of adventure into the project, given his gritty, punchy, and swaggering flows. However, Asake largely conforms to Wizkid's world of ease, trading his characteristic colorful writing for a more subdued delivery. This alignment was expected, as Asake was unlikely to go "gun blazing" when his partner never ventured beyond the first gear.

Throughout the EP, both artists struggle to match the inspiration of Magisticks' sublime production. Their melodies serve as a suitable accompaniment to the brilliant Afropolitan soundscape of tracks like 'Iskolodo'. On the chest-thumping 'Alaye', Wizkid's trademark flows and Asake's too-cool-for-school delivery are primarily lifted by Magicsticks' thumping log drums.

Notable Moments and Production Highlights

If compelled to identify standout moments beyond Magicsticks' production prowess, Asake's snappy rhymes on 'Jogodo' deserve mention. They succinctly capture breakout star Mavo's recent influence on Nigeria's pop culture vocabulary, adding a touch of contemporary relevance to the project.

Overall, the EP is sufficiently enjoyable, with sublime production ensuring consistent replay value. This may lead to subconscious acceptance even among listeners who initially craved more. The collaboration between Wizkid and Asake, while not groundbreaking, is a significant event in Nigerian pop music, delighting fans who mean well for the industry.

Future Prospects and Final Thoughts

Perhaps in time, 'REAL VOL 1' will serve a greater purpose beyond being a cash grab. A potential VOL 2 could emerge if a track from this project achieves success comparable to their maiden collaboration, 'MMS'. Additionally, the EP might deliver moments substantial enough to warrant a joint tour, potentially bringing Wizkid back on the road after the unceremonious cancellation of his 'Morayo' tour.

For this reviewer, there is no disappointment in the expected. The EP delivers exactly what was anticipated: a polished, enjoyable, yet predictable addition to both artists' discographies. Maybe a future VOL 2 will bring the delightful surprise that some fans hoped for this time around.

Pulse Rating: 7.0/10