Niniola, Nigeria’s Afro-House queen, has dropped her highly anticipated album Press Play. It takes us on an exciting journey using core sounds of Afrobeat, house, and pop rhythms that showcase her versatility.
Here’s what we think!
Lavish ft. Magicsticks
Press Play kicks off with Lavish, a rich, pulsating Afrobeats tune featuring Magicsticks. The track oozes luxury, as the title suggests, with Niniola’s sultry voice gliding over the bouncy production. Magicsticks complements her well, creating a synergy that makes the song instantly catchy.
Pepper Dem
On Pepper Dem, Niniola delivers a spicy anthem full of Amapiano sounds and a whole lot of swagger. As the second track on Press Play, this track leans heavily into her Afro-house roots, with a catchy hook and pulsating beat.
It’s a bold, confident song that pays more attention to the beat than the vocals. While this is typically what a Niniola song sounds like, I’m of the opinion that it fell flat. If her vocals were a bit more prominent, they could’ve given the song more life.
Level
The next song on Press Play is Level, a mid-tempo, empowering song where Niniola asserts her dominance. The production goes head to head with the vocals, resulting in a well-balanced song. The track’s smooth vibe also allows her to showcase her vocal agility, creating a perfect balance of energy and elegance.
Chelete Moleko ft. Smangori
Featuring South African EDM musician Smangori, Chelete Moleko merges Amapiano and Afrobeat influences. The bass-heavy track carries the signature Amapiano log drum patterns, while Niniola’s voice floats effortlessly over the beat, adding a sultry, melodic element. It’s a cross-cultural celebration of African sounds that has been brilliantly executed.
Sorry
In Sorry, Niniola explores heartbreak with more emotional depth. The track is stripped down, with poignant lyrics and a softer, melodic approach. This deviation from her usual upbeat lyrics adds a refreshing contrast to the album, highlighting her ability to delve into more introspective themes.
Taste ft. Magicsticks
Returning with Magicsticks on Taste, Niniola delivers a sensual, tantalizing tune that goes heavy on the Amapiano beat and adlibs. The smooth Afro-house rhythm combined with her seductive lyrics makes this worthy to listen to. Magicsticks’ subtle production touches also enhance Niniola’s voice, keeping the mood intimate yet vibrant.
Formula ft. Pheelz
Formula is an exciting collaboration with producer Pheelz. The track is a groovy, feel-good anthem that celebrates love and attraction. The fusion of Afrobeat and highlife rhythms feels nothing short of infectious. On the other hand, Pheelz’s vocal contributions give the song a polished, radio-friendly appeal.
All Eyes on Me
We’re all familiar with the next track on Niniola’s new album, Press Play. This track exudes confidence and high energy, while Niniola clearly revels in the attention that comes with her success.
The production is vibrant, with layers of synths and percussion that keep the momentum up. It’s a fun, celebratory song that reminds listeners of her ability to play around with a beat.
Mr. DJ ft. OSKIDO & Kah-Lo
Mr. DJ is a collaboration with South African house legend OSKIDO and Grammy-nominated Nigerian artist, Kah-Lo. The track combines infectious house beats with Niniola’s signature Afro-house flavor, resulting in an international dance anthem. Kah-Lo’s unique vocal style adds a dynamic layer to the track, while OSKIDO’s production expertise certainly shines through.
Rababa ft. OSKIDO
Rababa is another energetic collaboration with OSKIDO. This track leans heavily into house music, with a repetitive hook and high-octane beats that are tailor-made for the dancefloor. Niniola and OSKIDO are a powerful duo, creating a vibrant, infectious tune that will keep the party going.
Energy
Energy is a self-assured track that highlights Niniola’s strong persona. The song’s minimalistic beat and subtle rhythms give it a hypnotic vibe. Niniola’s powerful voice is at the forefront here, and she owns the stage with her delivery, making this track feel like a mantra for every Afro-House lover out there.
Wami ft. Akeem Adisa
Akeem Adisa joins Niniola on Wami, a song that fuses Afrobeat and R&B elements. The collaboration results in a smooth, romantic ballad that showcases Niniola’s softer side. Akeem Adisa’s soothing vocals complement her effortlessly, creating a harmonious duet.
Want
Next on Press Play is Want, a pulsating track that is bound to be a crowd favorite. The song is filled with infectious energy, thanks to its fast-paced beats and catchy hooks. Niniola’s assertive lyrics make this song feel like an anthem of desire and ambition.
Komiyo
Closing the album Press Play is Komiyo, a track that blends elements of highlife and Afro-house. While this is a trend that we’ve seen come to life throughout the album, Komiyo has a unique twist to it. The uplifting rhythms and vibrant instrumentation make it a celebratory end to the album. Niniola’s delivery is also joyful and spirited, leaving listeners on a high note.
Final Thoughts on Press Play, Niniola’s New Album
Press Play sounds every bit like a Niniola project would. She seamlessly blends Afrobeat, house, and pop elements while staying true to her Afro-house roots. The collaborations on the album, especially with Magicsticks, Pheelz, and OSKIDO, add variety and international appeal.
If you expect to find radically different songs on Press Play, you may be disappointed. This work of art follows a template that’s all too synonymous with Niniola’s style of music. And while her sound remains evergreen, I sometimes find myself wishing she would explore other sounds and show off more of those alluring vocals of hers rather than constantly hide behind the beat.