is not the direction many expected to go for his second album, frankly because it’s such a sharp turn away from his debut . The 2022 album was a massive success that brought Rema worldwide recognition and helped to place him at the pinnacle of modern-day afrobeats. It’s also home to “ ,” the highest-charting afrobeats song in Hot 100 history.
These are the accomplishments that make the dramatic shift in sound that is even more impressive. There’s no joy in playing it safe and with , Rema proves that he has no interest in being conventional. An album like is a risky move, as mixed reviews have proven it to be, but truthfully, it’s just the polarizing jolt that afrobeats needs.
While is feel-good and bright, promoting good times and soundtracking what feels like a summer party, is sinister, rebellious, and mischievous. It soundtracks all forms of chaos – from the exciting highs of a party to the stressful lows of a fight – to perfection. Think of the most thrilling scene from your favorite action movie; there’s a song on that can replace it and capture the same energy.
opens in an aggressive sprint with “March Am” as he emphatically chants “I dey march am” – a Nigerian Pidgin phrase that essentially means pressing forward and putting your foot on the gas. It closes with waning violin strums before steering into “Azaman,” a lavish account of riches and the pursuit of more. “ ” recruits fellow Nigerian artist Shallipopi for a tough-talking warn.