Sheay Akins’ debut EP, titled “Versatility (Vol.1)“, is a remarkable project that showcases the artist’s unique blend of different genres. The EP features a diverse mix of musical styles, including Afrobeat, R&B, Gospel, Hip Hop, Jazz, and Country, among others. From the energetic and upbeat “Olojo Ibi (The Celebrant)” to the soulful and reflective “I’ll Make Things Right,” each track on the EP offers something different and exciting for the listener.
Akins’ production skills are particularly impressive, with each song being expertly crafted and layered with various instrumentation, sound effects, and vocal harmonies. The use of saxophones, marimbas, electric guitars, and EDM sounds adds an extra dimension to the already lively and energetic Afrobeat rhythms.The EP is made up of 8 impressive tracks with a total overall play duration of 29 minutes and 46 seconds.
Track 1. Olojo Ibi (The Celebrant): The track has an energetic and upbeat rhythm that perfectly captures the essence of a celebration. The production quality is excellent, with clear and crisp vocals and a well-mixed instrumental arrangement. The song’s runtime is just under 4 minutes 16 seconds, which is just the right length to keep the listener engaged without overstaying its welcome. This track will definitely make you fall in love with other tracks on the EP because of the lyrics and production quality.
Track 2. Stickers on the Paper: “Stickers on the Paper” is a more mellow and introspective track compared to the first one. The song has a smooth and laid-back groove that complements the introspective lyrics. The production quality is top-notch, with a clear and well-balanced mix of vocals and instruments. The track’s runtime is just over 3 minutes 16 seconds, which is a perfect duration for an astounding track like “Stickers on the Paper”.
Track 3. Song of Triumph (Mammah Mia): The song has a triumphant and anthemic beat that perfectly captures the uplifting lyrics. The production quality is superb, with crystal-clear vocals and a well-arranged instrumental backing. The song’s runtime is around 4 minutes, which is just the right length to keep the listener engaged.
Track 4. I’ll Make Things Right: The song has a soulful and contemplative feel that is beautifully captured in both the lyrics and production. The vocals are emotive, and the instrumental backing is well-arranged and mixed. One of my problems with this track is the runtime length which I think is not enough for a good song like this.
Track 5. Loop Love Right: The song has a catchy and danceable beat that is perfectly suited for a party or club setting. This track paid homage to Sheay Akin’s beginnings as an artist. This remix further demonstrates Akins’ ability to blend different genres seamlessly, and it is a testament to his versatility as an artist. The production quality is excellent, with clear vocals and a well-mixed instrumental arrangement. The song’s runtime is just under 3 minutes, which is just the right length to keep the listener engaged without overstaying its welcome.
Track 6. J.O.Y: The song has a bouncy and cheerful beat that perfectly complements the uplifting lyrics. The production quality is top-notch, with clear and crisp vocals and a well-arranged instrumental backing.
Track 7. Searching: The song has a haunting and melancholic feel that is beautifully captured in both the lyrics and production. The vocals are emotive, and the instrumental backing is well-arranged and mixed.
Track 8. Baba Yio Lana (Father‘ll make a way) The song has a soulful and gospel-inspired beat that perfectly suits the spiritual and uplifting lyrics. The production quality is excellent, with clear vocals and a well-mixed instrumental arrangement.
Overall, Sheay Akins’ Versatility (Vol.1) is an impressive debut EP that showcases the artist’s range and versatility. The production quality of each track is top-notch, with clear and well-mixed vocals and instrumental arrangements. The time factor of each track is also well-balanced, with most tracks coming in at just over 3-4 minutes. While some tracks may feel a bit long for some listeners, the overall quality of the EP is excellent, and it’s sure to leave listeners wanting more.
Ranking the songs on Sheay Akins EP
- J.O.Y
- Baba Yio Lana (Father‘ll make a way)
- Song of Triumph (Mammah Mia)
- Olojo Ibi (The Celebrant)
- Loop Love Right
- I’ll Make Things Right
- Searching
- Stickers on the Paper
Rating:
Delivery: 1.7/2
Lyricism: 1.5/2
Mixing and Production: 1.4/2
Relatability: 1.8/2
Replay Value: 1.9/2
