EP Review: “R2 Sept 12” by Bella Shmurda

Bella Shmurda, the Nigerian singer and songwriter who gained fame with his hit song “Vision 2020,” released his latest EP titled “R2 Sept 12” on April 26th, 2024. Born Abiola Ahmed Akinbiyi, Bella Shmurda continues to captivate audiences with his unique blend of Afro-beats and captivating lyrics.

Overview of the EP: “R2 Sept 12”

About the EP “R2 Sept 12”

Following the passing of the beloved rapper and singer MohBad in 2023, Bella Shmurda, a close friend and collaborator, played a pivotal role in honoring the memory of the musician whose soulful rendition of street-pop had captured widespread acclaim. Shmurda and MohBad had forged a deep connection years earlier while navigating the intricate underground street-pop music scene of Lagos. This bond provided solace for both artists on numerous occasions throughout their careers.

Less than a month after MohBad’s death, Shmurda released “My Brother,” a poignant tribute that encapsulated his profound grief at losing his dear friend and the profound experiences that had underpinned their friendship. Expanding on these emotions, Shmurda’s EP “R2 Sept 18,” his first project since 2023’s “DND,” resonates with reflections on the unpredictability of death, the bewildering shock of losing a loved one suddenly, and the struggle to cherish cherished memories while grappling with enduring feelings of loss.

Conceived as a poignant prelude to a more comprehensive album release on the first anniversary of MohBad’s passing, “R2 Sept 18” serves as an unflinching portrayal of the grieving process. While MohBad is directly referenced only in “My Brother,” the EP’s five songs collectively testify to his presence and significance in Shmurda’s life. “Feelings,” the opening track produced by larrylanes, sees Shmurda candidly admitting, “I just dey lie if I say I’m fine.” This sentiment also permeates “Loner,” where Shmurda seeks solace for himself, his friends, and MohBad’s loved ones. The EP features a guest appearance by the emerging singer and producer Bloody Civilian on “1999,” an anthem celebrating hustling, while “Oghene” sees Jeriq and Zlatan team up to deliver the project’s most lively moment, with the trio invoking divine blessings.

As “R2 Sept 18” draws to a close with chants of MohBad’s name from a memorial held in Lagos the previous year, it serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring presence of grief and its ability to manifest unexpectedly, even in the most fleeting moments.

“R2 Sept 12” Tracklist

Features/Collaboration

“R2 Sept 12” features collaborations with talented artists such as Bloody Civilian, Zlatan Ibile, and Jeriq, adding depth and variety to the EP’s sound.

Musical Composition

Arrangement: The EP boasts impressive musical arrangements, with dynamic instrumentation, infectious beats, and memorable melodies that keep listeners engaged throughout.

Structure: Each track is well-structured, with captivating intros, catchy verses, infectious choruses, and seamless transitions, creating a cohesive and enjoyable listening experience.

Vocal Performance
Bella Shmurda’s vocal performance is stellar, with his distinct voice and emotive delivery shining through on every track, captivating listeners with his storytelling prowess.

Production and Sound Quality

Production Quality: The EP showcases high production quality, with expert mixing and mastering that elevate the overall sound and clarity of each track.

Unique Sound Effects: Bella Shmurda incorporates unique sound effects and production techniques, adding layers of depth and creativity to the EP’s sound.

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