Nigerian rising star, Neo Phlames (Adeniyi Adewoyin), has ignited his journey towards mainstream recognition with his debut EP, “I Just Did It.”
Released on May 10th, 2024, the project serves as a potent introduction to his artistry, showcasing an evolution in sound while retaining his core identity.
Despite the confident title, “I Just Did It” isn’t simply bravado. It’s a carefully crafted collection that allows fans to truly evaluate Neo Phlames’ talents through a cohesive body of work. Here, he pushes the boundaries of his signature style, blending elements of Afrobeats, Highlife, Amapiano, and even Funk/Hip-Hop, all with the ambition of achieving wider appeal.
The EP kicks off with the high-energy “Iba,” a Yoruba-infused banger that sets the tone for the musical adventure ahead. Infectious beats and Neo Phlames’ trademark flavor instantly grab the listener’s attention, while elements of Amapiano weave throughout the 3.29-minute track. Harmonies, production, and the overall vibe are all on point, making “Iba” the perfect opening act.
On “Kadara” (meaning “Destiny” in Yoruba), he shifts gears, showcasing his mastery of highlife on a slower, more melodic track. This 2.57-minute love song finds him showering his love interest with compliments and promises of loyalty. The soulful lead guitar solo adds a layer of sweetness, solidifying Neo Phlames’ comfort zone within the highlife genre.
A sharp turn towards heartbreak arrives with “HeartDown,” a 3:31 minute Funk/Hip-Hop fusion. A melodic piano intro gives way to hypeman OG Swiss, whose initial interjections come across as monotonous. Despite this minor hiccup, the song shines as Neo Phlames delivers a relatable tale of a man scorned by love. The track boasts a beautiful Amapiano vibe, making it a danceable exploration of heartbreak.
“Abiyamo” offers a heartwarming tribute to mothers. Opening with powerful chants praising “Abiyamo” (mother), the song transforms into a highlife ode to maternal love. Neo Phlames highlights the power of a mother’s prayers and expresses his gratitude for her unwavering support. This heartfelt track has the potential to become a timeless classic for Mother’s Day celebrations.
The EP concludes with “Macaroni,” a fast-paced Afrobeat-Amapiano fusion that showcases Neo Phlames’ ability to paint vivid pictures through his lyrics. The song explores the theme of manipulative women, with the infectious saxophone melody keeping listeners on their feet. While the lyrical content may not be as strong compared to other tracks, “Macaroni” undeniably delivers a dancefloor-worthy experience.
“I Just Did It” proves that he is an artist with far-reaching aspirations. His vocal prowess and genre-bending versatility paint a clear picture of his ambition to dominate mainstream music. Fueled by the passion evident throughout the EP, his arrival as a major player seems inevitable.
(Review by Kehinde Ajose)
