Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on September 24, 2024, 7:32 PM

In the dynamic world of music, timing is everything. Oxlade, a prominent figure in the Afrobeats scene, has finally unveiled his debut album 'OFA' (Oxlade From Africa), and it's a body of work that's been long anticipated by fans and critics alike. The album arrives on the heels of his global hit 'Kulosa', which not only put him on the international map but also set high expectations for his full-length project.

'OFA' is a 16-track journey through Oxlade's artistic vision, blending Afrobeats with highlife, R&B, and traditional African rhythms. It's a rich tapestry that tells a story of love, culture, and personal growth, showcasing Oxlade's vocal agility and deep emotional resonance. The album features collaborations with a host of African stars, including Popcaan, Flavour, Fally Pupa, Dave and Bobi Wine, among others, aiming to cement Oxlade's status as a pan-Africanist musician.

However, the album's release has sparked a conversation about the timing and direction of Oxlade's artistry. Some reviews suggest that 'OFA' might be a product of cold feet, indicating a hesitation that led to a delay in the album's release. This delay may have cost Oxlade the momentum gained from 'Kulosa', with some critics arguing that the album fails to propel him to the next level or to communicate a clear and intentional artistic direction.

Despite these critiques, 'OFA' does offer glimpses of Oxlade's distinctive vocal prowess and melodies. Tracks like 'Blessed' featuring Popcaan and 'On My Mind' with Tomi Owo and Ojahbee stand out as examples of his ability to fuse different genres and create an enjoyable listening experience. The album also includes 'Kulosa', a strategic move that links past success to the present project.

The album opens with 'D PTSD interlude', a deeply personal recount of the trauma from the 2020 ENDSARS protest, featuring Ugandan musician and politician Bobi Wine. This track sets a tone of reflection and introspection that runs through the album, as Oxlade navigates themes of love, authenticity, and resilience.

Oxlade's fashion choices, opting for free-flowing African cultural prints, also speak to his attempt to create a brand and persona that aligns with the album's title. It's a visual representation of his commitment to African culture and heritage, even if it has left some listeners puzzled about the direction he's heading.

'OFA' is a testament to Oxlade's talent and his contribution to the evolving soundscape of African music. While it may not have met every expectation set by his breakout hit, it's an album that resonates on a global level, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of an artist at a pivotal moment in his career.

As with any artist's journey, there will be peaks and valleys, hits and misses. 'OFA' is a snapshot of where Oxlade is at this point in his career—perhaps not the definitive work that many were hoping for, but a significant step in his artistic evolution. It's a reminder that the path to greatness is rarely a straight line, and that even with cold feet, one can still leave footprints worth following.