Review: Wizkid & Asake’s Real, Vol. 1: Polished Collaboration, Missed Potentia

Given the presence of two of Afrobeats’ more recognizable vocal talents in Wizkid and Asake, it’s only natural to think that the end result of their collaborative project will be significant. While Real, Vol. 1 is a project in its own right, it’s one that plays more towards a relaxed style of Afrobeats and less towards telling a compelling story or exploring a narrative theme.

The first track, “Turbulence,” is a great example of this, as it’s more of a laid-back Afrobeats jam with a mid-tempo beat and smooth instrumentation characteristic of Afrobeats production in recent years. Wizkid’s vocals are as smooth and relaxed as they’ve been in his more recent work, with Asake adding his own energy through his chant-like delivery.

While the dynamic between the two vocal talents is interesting, it’s worth noting that the track is more focused on atmosphere and less on lyrical content.

“Jogodo” is another Afrobeats jam with a focus on rhythmic percussion and melodic repetition, and it’s one where both Wizkid and Asake are able to showcase their respective talents in Afrobeats and Afropop music. While the lyrics are once again focused on Afropop’s more common themes of pleasure, love, and status, it’s worth noting that the track is catchy, if unoriginal.

Asake’s vocal style, which is more akin to Fuji music, is more prominent in “Iskolodo.” His energy is infectious and adds a certain personality to the track, reminding the listener of his raw energy and charisma as one of Afrobeats’ more prominent vocal talents in recent years. Wizkid is smooth and relaxed as always, though his presence is more of a complement to the track rather than the main engine behind it.

The closing track, “Alaye,” is no different in terms of keeping with the relaxed atmosphere of the entire EP. The production is well-crafted and pleasant to listen to, but by this point in the project, it is obvious that Wizkid and Asake are simply following a well-trodden path in terms of their sound. Steady beats, pleasant melodies, and lyrics that focus on their respective lifestyles and successes are all well-represented here, but none of it particularly sticks out or leaves a lasting impression.

Throughout its duration, Real, Vol. 1 does little to try and break free from the norm of what contemporary Afrobeats sound like. The chemistry between Wizkid and Asake is undeniable at times, particularly when their respective vocals come together in harmony despite their obvious stylistic differences. However, at times, it feels like this is simply an artistic collaboration for the sake of it.

Despite all of this, Real, Vol. 1 is by no means unpleasant to listen to. The production is well-made, catchy, and both artists sound at home in their respective environments. However, it is clear that this is simply another in a long line of artistic choices that fails to make any real impression or act as a milestone in either of their respective careers.

Ultimately, Real, Vol. 1 is best described as a listen that is pleasant in the moment but fails to really resonate after it is over.

Rating: 6.8 / 10 ⭐