Oxlade’s much-anticipated debut album, “OFA” (Oxlade of Africa), fails to deliver the impact needed to elevate the artist to the next level. Despite riding the wave of his 2022 global hit “Kulosa”, the project arrives two years too late, missing the prime moment to capitalize on his breakthrough success.
Released on September 20, 2024, “OFA” offers glimpses of Oxlade’s vocal talent, but its content and direction seem disconnected from the audience he intends to captivate. Rather than being a cohesive showcase of his artistry, the album feels like a disjointed effort that lacks the energy needed to solidify his place as a pan-African popstar.
With the title “Oxlade of Africa”, the singer aims to position himself as a pan-African figure, spreading his talent across the continent. However, collaborations with other African stars like Flavour, Fally Ipupa, and Wande Coal fail to lift the tracks or reflect the popstar ambition suggested by the title. Oxlade’s shift towards a more African identity, seen in his sartorial choices, also confuses listeners who may be unsure of the direction he’s taking.
The 16-track album includes six pre-released singles, notably “Kulosa”, which is awkwardly placed as track six. While the success of “Kulosa”, with 355 million Spotify streams, is undeniable, the newer material feels lackluster. The album opens with the puzzling “D PTSD Interlude”, featuring Ugandan musician and politician Bobi Wine, where Oxlade touches on his traumatic experience during the 2020 EndSARS protest. Despite the personal significance of the event, the song’s pan-Africanist sentiments feel forced and out of place.
Songs like “Blessed” featuring Popcaan and “On My Mind” with Tomi Owo and Ojahbee showcase moments of Oxlade’s ability, but they fail to push artistic boundaries. Collaborations with veterans like Fally Ipupa and Wande Coal, while nostalgic, sound dated and don’t evoke the excitement they might have years ago. Even Sarkodie’s verse on “Olulufe”, although lending credibility to the album’s pan-African theme, feels repetitive and uninspired.
The standout moments on the album come from the pre-released singles, including “Intoxycated” featuring British-Nigerian rapper Dave, “Ovami” with Flavour, and “Katigori”. Unfortunately, the rest of the project fails to maintain the same level of quality or energy, leading to a 45-minute, 30-second album that struggles to find its footing.
“OFA” ultimately feels like a project plagued by indecision and cold feet. Oxlade, who has been in the game for nearly a decade, missed the opportunity to fully capitalize on his momentum.
The album neither showcases his full potential nor delivers the punch needed to propel him to new heights. As he reflects on this debut, one can only hope his next project won’t take as long and will deliver the much-needed bang.
Source: Pulse Nigeria
