Album’s Cover Art
Brymo’s sixth studio album, Oṣó (Yoruba for “The Wizard”), is a transcendent work of art that cements his position as one of Nigeria’s most enigmatic and gifted musicians. Released in 2018, the album offers a deeply introspective journey that blends folk, alternative rock, and soul with Afrocentric storytelling, showcasing Brymo’s penchant for crafting music that is both accessible and profound.
At its core, Oṣó is a lyrical treasure trove. Brymo delves into themes of love, ambition, spirituality, and the human condition, presenting them with poetic brilliance.
The opening track, “No Be Me,” sets the tone with its minimalist instrumentation and raw vulnerability, immediately pulling listeners into Brymo’s world of honest self-reflection. Songs like “Mama” and Patience and Goodluck” speak to universal truths while remaining distinctly personal, drawing from Yoruba proverbs and African wisdom.
Oṣó’s musical development is evidence of Brymo’s growth as a performer. His stories and lyrical voice are given the spotlight by the understated yet elegant production. Songs like “Héya!” and “Bá’núsọ” demonstrate his ability to blend modern sounds with traditional African rhythms.
The haunting melody of “Héya!” is accompanied by Brymo’s stark, almost primal vocals, a performance that is as daring as it is unforgettable. The song’s minimalist piano arrangement adds a layer of intimacy that feels both universal and deeply personal.
One of the most striking aspects of Oṣó is its embrace of Yoruba culture and spirituality.
“The Wizard,” the album’s title, alludes to transcendence and mastery, ideas that run throughout the work. Songs like “Olumo” and “God Is in Your Mind” challenge preconceived ideas about religion and exhort listeners to seek heavenly direction inside themselves by drawing on traditional African mysticism.
Brymo’s 2018 album ‘Oṣó’ is an ambitious and deeply moving work that demonstrates his virtuosity. While the album is a standout in the African alternative music scene, it is not without its flaws”.
While the minimalist approach is one of the album’s strengths, it occasionally feels overused. Some tracks blur together due to similar pacing and instrumentation, which might leave listeners craving more variety in tempo and dynamics. For instance, “Olumo” and “Entropy,” while individually compelling, risk feeling monotonous when heard in sequence.
Also, Brymo’s penchant for introspection and Afrocentric storytelling might alienate listeners unfamiliar with Yoruba culture or the nuances of his lyricism.
While this is not necessarily a flaw for fans of niche, high-concept albums, it may limit the broader appeal of Oṣó in a world increasingly dominated by high-energy, radio-friendly Afrobeat tracks.
The Album also vocals as a double-edged sword. Brymo’s raw and emotive singing style is both a strength and a potential drawback. At times, his delivery borders on unpolished, which might detract from the experience for listeners who prefer more refined vocal performances. On “Héya!” in particular, while his vulnerability is striking, the lack of vocal polish may not be to everyone’s taste.
Ultimately, Brymo’s Oṣó is an undeniably daring project that prioritizes artistry over commerciality. It solidifies his status as a true innovator in African music. However, the album’s insistence on minimalism and introspection, while its greatest strength, may also be its Achilles’ heel. The lack of diversity in sound and pacing could make the album feel like a niche offering rather than a universally appealing masterpiece.
For those willing to invest the time and emotional energy, Oṣó offers a rich, rewarding experience. However, casual listeners might find its slower tempo and cultural specificity less engaging.
Rating: 9.5/ 10 Oṣó is more than just an album; it’s a cultural and spiritual voyage that solidifies Brymo’s status as a master of contemporary African music.
