E.P Review: Ladipoe - Providence

 

Nigerian born Rapper/Songwriter Ladipo Eso popularly known as ''Ladipoe/Poe'' releases his 2021 E.P consisting of SIX (6) tracks as unveiled on the (4/11/2021). Now here are my thoughts on the extended play brought to you by Ladipoe. he is currently signed to Mavin Records. 

LOTR II: Poe kicks off this project with that strain of a mid-tempo beat with a  background of a subtle hip hop/soul vibe. LOTR II which means (Leader of the Revival II) is a record Ladipoe ascertains his brilliance as a prolific rapper with the skills as a wordplay genius as well as a conscious rapper. He interchangeably uses words with recent happenings to pass a message about every day dealings. Example: Ladipoe says; "Worried I am getting sick/I lost my sense of smell and taste for the jealousy/ is there a Covid test I can't take? Even before the virus, men! I didn't do handshakes/pull up on my handbrake, baby make me swerve/ doting I's crossing  T's leave my mark on every word/ the signature I just an autograph that says pay me first/even when the drip is heavy/it doesn't always quench the thirst.'' These are perfect lines that proves the impeccable talent of this great rapper and it is definitely an awesome way to introduce listeners to this project. 

Produced by: Ikon,Ozedikus, London, Guilty Beatz, Andre Vibez, Emmit Fenn, and Jo.  

Afro Jigga feat. Rema: This record shows us a brilliant collaboration between two label mates signed to Mavin Records. Ladipoe recruits Rema on this perfectly blended Afrobeats and Hip Hop fusion as Rema lends his vocals on the chorus of a record he titles Afro Jigga. This is a rapper affirming is positions as the Afro King, channeling this feat towards the successful Hip Hop legend Jay Z  who has an array of nicknames is also commonly known as Jigga. This is an appropriate song selection to have made the extended play. 

Produced by: London.

Law of Attraction: This is by far one of the favorites off the Providence EP. This midtempo love record affirms this position because the song exposes Ladipoe amazing writing skills, the song arrangement and production was on point, the chorus was catchy and alluring with words like; ''Tap in tap in/defined love with your actions/its not hard to imagine/there's no law to attraction.''  This record deserves a well thought out visual to bring a well written song to live.

Produced by:  Ikon,Ozedikus, London, Guilty Beatz, Andre Vibez, Emmit Fenn, and Jo.

Running feat. Fireboy DML: This is the lead single off the Providence EP as we see Poe recruit talented vocalist Fireboy DML of YBNL on the hook and this records shows that Ladipoe has finally found the right formula that gets him a hit record because Running has it all. The background strings of the Violin adds a great touch and class to the record and the versatility of Poe's talent is evident on the record, as we can hear him switch up his style on a couple of bars on the record.  The A&R team did a good job tipping this record as the lead single for the project.

Produced by: Andre Vibez.

Love Essential feat. Amaarae: Ladipoe introduces listeners to a record with an outstanding poetry interlude and an alluring vocals of the Afro-Fusion/Alte American/Ghanaian singer Amaarae who brings that smooth and sensual feel to the record dubbed Love Essential which is a song about love and reconciliation. Ladipoe plays his role perfectly well on the records, blending his rap style to the flow of Amaarae vocals to give that perfect vibe to a love song. The production twist (echoes, call and response, vocoder-sci-fi effects, etc) to the record was apt and a nice way to bring more life to the record. 

Produced by: Ikon,Ozedikus, London, Guilty Beatz, Andre Vibez, Emmit Fenn, and Jo.

Providence: The excerpts of a lady caught in a typical Lagos traffic and the frustration that comes with it, introduces listeners to this London produced track and the conversion is simply epic and relatable. Providence is by far the best track of this project as we see Ladipoe display this best rap line such as; ''Its hard work causing anything to grow/without first getting use to the smell of manure/now it's like Christian Dior/man! I am just smelling so tasty/ever since I turned GOAT/I started hating BEEF.'' ''Faith never needs a reason.'' Providence is an affirmation of his lyrical prowess and certainly one of the best to come out of Nigeria. This record certainly deserves a well executed video to showcase the brilliance of the record.

Produced by: London.

My final thoughts on the six (6) tracks analyzed  above for the ''Providence'' E.P. is a super SOLID effort by Ladipoe and deserves a 9/10 and of course listener's could have only wished for a full album project because the song selection, sequence, guest appearance and arrangement is almost perfect, showing that Ladipoe is indeed in control of his creativity and ideas. Then the producers and sound engineer did a brilliant job bringing Ladipoe's vision into life with the compliment of their production, mixing and mastering skills of the records to give it the level of satisfaction fans or any listener would appreciate. Excellent job!!! 

In case you haven't  listened or streamed Ladipoe - Providence E.P. please do so it below:

 DOWNLOAD HERE

LADIPOE - Providence [EP]

 

Prolific rapper and songwriter who is signed to Mavin Record: Ladipoe is out with a new extended play he titles Providence. This body of work consist of Six (6) tracks and guest features from the likes of; Fireboy DML on the lead single Running, label mate Rema and Amaarae. Check on it!

Production credit: Ikon, Ozedikus, London, Guilty Beatz, Andre Vibez, Emmit Fenn,  Johnson IP.

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Show Dem Camp - That Year ft. Sir Dauda [Audio]

The amazing duo of Show Dem Camp are back with a new single dubbed That Year featuring Sir Dauda. Check on it!
Produced by: Ikon. 


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SDC x Ladipoe x Ikon - More To Life (Prod. by Spax)

 

''To mark the start of another year, SDC x Ladipoe x Ikon release 'More To Life' A song reflecting on some of the lessons they picked up over the past year and their mind state for the year ahead
More To Life follows on from a successful 2017, which saw Ladipoe signing to Mavin records, Ikon completing his debut album 'Hungry 2 Live" and SDC releasing their popular Palmwine Music EP and rounding off the year with the Palmwine Music festival.
More To Life is produced by Spax who was responsible for SDC's Palmwine Music.''

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EP Review: Show Dem Camp (SDC) - Palm Wine Music EP (VOL. 1)

''Show Dem Camp (SDC)'' Releases a brand new project in less than a year after the release of their Mixtape - ''Clone Wars 3: The Recession'' and this extended play is titled ''Palm Wine Music EP (Vol 1)'' which consist of seven (7) tracks and was released on the 19th June, 2017. Follow me as we take a trip inside the mind of ''Palm Wine Music'' and see what ''SDC'' have got for us on this EP.


Up 2 you Feat. Funbi (Ikon Mix): The producer ''Spax'' kicks off the EP with an amazing number with the alluring vibe of the strings on the guitar, accompanied by the soothing vocals of ''Funbi'' which captures the essence of this ''Palm Wine Music'' concept SDC has got to share with the world.... a laid back/feel good track filled with soul as well as the core of rap. ''Up 2 You'' is the lead single of this extended play which has an amazing retro type of visual to it and it can easily become one of your favourites off the EP.

 
Compose Feat. Boj: ''Compose'' takes us deeper into the life blood of ''Palm Wine Music (Vol.1)'' as ''Boj'' holds sway on the hook with his edgy alternative sound and ''SDC'' rap verses adding weight to the record. What captures you on this track is the influence of highlife and jazz laced with the ''SDC'' lyrical prowess.  



Wahala Skit: This is a very relatable topic and more like; battle of the sexes as both opinion can be said to be valid on the skit. However, its important for everyone to know who you are dealing with in a relationship. The concept of this skit is so creative as the message hits the hail on the head with a very simple and precise delivery that has a call in radio type of concept to it.  

 
Independent Ladies Feat. Ajebutter22: As the name implies ''Independent Ladies'' is a song about women who work hard to get it on their own and do not have to depend on a man to survive. This is a solid track off this EP with heavy Highlife/Afrobeat influences as we see ''Spax'' production skills comes into full effect and an appropriate ''Ajebutter22'' feature. The brilliance of ''Tec'' and ''Ghost SDC'' verses expresses the reality of being an independent lady which can have a flipside but its all a choice and the wisdom of keeping a balance in knowing her place in the relationship makes her a winner/keeper.


She Wants More Feat. LadiPoe: ''SDC'' recruits ''Mavin Records'' rapper ''LadiPoe'' who kicks off this record with brilliant wordplay as ''SDC'' completes this beautiful soulful track with verses of attraction towards the opposite sex. This is definitely one of the best records off this EP that adds value to the ''Palm Wine Music'' vibe/concept.

 
What You Want Feat. Tomi Thomas: This is by far the best track off the ''Palm Wine Music EP (Vol.1)'' ''Spax'' who has been amazing throughout the production of this body of work, takes it a notch higher with this upbeat number ''What You Want'' and it features ''Tomi Thomas'' of LOS who is spot on with his vocals on the chorus giving it that Jon B like 90s vibe. SDC certainly knows how to keep listeners spellbound with their content which includes; lyrics, features, and production. Nigerian hip hop music is certainly in good hands with the quality of work that the likes of SDC keep putting out. 

 
Popping Feat. Boj & Odunsi The Engine: This laidback record has ''Boj'' featured for the second time on this EP and it has ''Odunsi The Engine'' as well, who puts a bit of the modern trap vibe to it as SDC spit on a retrospective level bringing the ''Palm Wine Music EP (Vol.1)'' to a closure. But with great expectation for a volume 2 because it seems the journey just began with SDC.



Here are my final thoughts on this extended play ''Palm Wine Music EP (Vol.1)'' it is a chilled out EP, the kind that you listen to at a lounge or when you are chilled with good company and I am sure that was the aim of this project. ''SDC'' pulled off what can be considered as a concept project and the idea had all the right elements and with features from ''Boj'' ''Ajebutter22'' ''LadiPoe'' ''Funbi'' ''Tomi Thomas'' and Odunsi The Engine who all added an amazing quality to the project giving it that all round kick. Therefore I would like to rate ''Palm Wine Music EP (Vol.1)'' a 8/10. However, I have my reservations about the work arrangement as I would have expected that this EP should have been a little bit longer at least two additional content like an additional skit and maybe an outro or intro but great job in total.

In case you haven't listened or downloaded Show Dem Camp (SDC) - Palm Wine Music EP (VOL. 1)  please download it here:
 
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Mixtape Review: Show Dem Camp (SDC) - Clone Wars 3 :The Recession

Nigerian Hip Hop/Rap duo Show Dem Camp '' SDC'' releases the last installment to their ''Clone Wars'' mixtape series titled ''Clone Wars 3 :The Recession'' with the ''Clone Wars'' volumes 1&2 released in 2010 and 2012 respectively, on the (31st December, 2016). ''Clone Wars 3 :The Recession'' was released and consist of twelve (12) tracks.

Intro: SDC kicks off with this soothing hip hop/soulful vibe with ''Ghost of (SDC)'' introducing the tape with a roll call of shout outs to their day 1s of friends and industry mates. Then the  intro immediately draws the listener in with interesting story telling about the industry, society, economy, and future movements. a pretty good way to let you into the world of ''Clone Wars 3 :The Recession.'' 


Rise of the Underdogs: This track gets you going almost immediately and can end up being one of your favorites of the tape as it was the case for me. Its indeed a track for the champions. The baseline holds you sway as the strings of the guitar ushers you into the depth of the songs wholeness. As the name implies ''Tec'' and ''Ghost''  of (SDC) builds on the ''Intro'' of the tape as they paint a perfect picture of the struggles an artist face trying to rise to the top in a sector which can be quite relative to life in general but with patience and persistence anyone can rise and shine. 

How Far 1: The ''Show Dem season is upon us...'' very creative track i must say. The beat starts with some dancehall vibe to get you grooving and then switches to a very hard Hip hop feel that lays a traditional ''SDC'' storytelling of what a regular lad experiences daily with the hustle. 

D.I.L.L.I.G.A. Feat. Mojeed: This should stand for ''Do I Look Like I Give A...'' and it features Aristokrat Records rapper ''Mojeed'' in ''D.I.L.L.I.G.A''brings on a bit of the crunk/trap kinda music feel and this track goes out to all 'dem fake a$$ dudes who always want to be about where success is happening but ''SDC'' ain't having none of that. Well was looking forward to more bars on this track but my desire was short-lived, as the track felt like an interlude and not a full track but a great jam overall. 

Love Naija: If you live in Nigeria or have lived in Nigeria you can totally relate to this track. ''SDC'' brought to life the struggles an average Nigerian goes through daily and as Nigeria is facing one of its most difficult period in its history with the ''Recession'' which is largely as a result in a build up of poor management. However, Nigeria may have recorded remarkable things and made the history books, possess both human and material wealth, and has loads of potential, reasons you would love to hate Naija. This is the reason we all ''Love Naija.'' Change for the better is eminent as we all need to effect that change as we look within. 

Move Mountains: This ''Jay Z'' inspired kinda track with a classic piano piece and a motivational drive to it simply makes it a Hip hop classic. ''Move Mountains'' sees ''Tec of SDC'' lead on this one after five (5) tracks with ''Ghost of SDC'' leading the pack. This is what you call a beautiful rap sung. Indeed all we need is faith to achieve anything we desire/dream with trust in God.

BMW. Feat. Funbi: I remember growing up my dad bought a BMW car and my mom use to always call it ''Be My Wife'' and she was usually excited when she does that.. I don't know but maybe its something about German cars that get the ladies going... Lol! Anyways, ''SDC'' recruits ''Funbi'' who adds an amazing R&B/Soul touch to this love song and what a brilliant way to describe an attraction for a woman. ''BMW'' is one of my favorites off this tape and it sure deserves a visual for it to take listeners on this cruise they have already laid out on the track. 


10,000 Hours: The wordplay on this record is simply amazing....''SDC'' takes us through a journey as they connect with our ancestors who had left an impact/legacy across the content and beyond and how this has inspired them to becoming better artist. ''SDC'' went further to challenge and task present day leaders on the need to leave a lasting legacy and not be carried away by how to get a piece of the ''National cake.'' This is a key track on the tape as it relates to our past, present, and future realities. 

Respect My Name Feat. Ikon: Syndik8 Records act/producer ''Ikon'' lights it up on this track ''Respect My Name'' as ''SDC'' spills about the doggedness of the music industry from; deception, intrigues, politics, betrayals, jealously, envy, and the list goes on. But those that will survive need to stay true to self and not get caught up in the hype. ''Respect My Name'' is a very intense track that reveals the rawness of this Hip hop duo. 

Tales Of A Side Nicca: Another favorite off the tape and ''SDC'' takes us into the world of being a side nicca... well i thought it was a man's world but listening to ''Tales Of A Side Nicca'' gave me a different perspective to life but hey! its the 21st century and the world of endless possibilities. Apparently, tables have turned right now... you ever been a side nicca? Lol!

The Interlude (Pay Attention): ''SDC'' slows it down on this one and they asking listeners vital questions about the essence of life. What vision are you telling? Why are you here for (purpose)? These are very important questions that leaves us with a food for thought daily so we don't lose sight of the goal. Stay focused! ''(Pay Attention).'' 

Live, Love, Laugh, Eat Feat. Sir Dauda: This track is a deeper essence of ''The Interlude (Pay Attention)'' it exposes the need to know why you on earth for? and living that life each day towards that goal. Life gives back what you give it... life can be as simple as you make it to be as long as you let God be the center. This is yet another track off the mixtape that i feel deserves a good video too.


 Here are my final thoughts on the mixtape review for  ''Clone Wars 3 :The Recession'' I enjoyed listening to the project and its certainly a listeners digest for 2017 and beyond . Show Dem Camp (SDC) mixtape ''Clone Wars 3 :The Recession'' is a SOLID project considering the quality of work put into the project and how if reflects our present day Nigeria as well as the world at large. With production /sound engineering skills from the likes of ace producers ''Ikon'' and ''Kid Konnect'' and well thought out features with the likes of; Sir Dauda,Funbi,Mojeed, all added great value to the tape and it is quite hard to fault this mixtape and based on my conclusion I would rate ''Clone Wars 3 :The Recession'' a 9/10. Worth checking out...
I look forward to a Show Dem Camp (SDC) Sophomore Album titled ''That Year'' in 2017.

In case you haven't listened or downloaded Show Dem Camp (SDC) - Clone Wars 3 :The Recession  Mixtape please download it for free here: 
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"The Anytime Soon Experience" with DJ Xclusive, M.I, Naeto C, Ikon, Dotun of CoolFm and Many More ...

''The Anytime Soon Experience takes the listener on a ride through the thought processes, journey and sounds of Ajebutter 22 and Studio Magic in their forthcoming collaboration album "Anytime Soon". We say a big thank you to Pulse TV those who participated M.I., Naeto C, DJ Xclusive, Zainab Balogun, Bizzle Osikoya, Lamide Akintobi, Leo, Onos Ovueraye, Matthew Ohio, Lanre Masha, Ikon, Osi BeatFM, Dotun CoolFM, Taymi B and everyone else who was involved in the experience.''