A Pulse review of 'Uburu' by Basketmouth

Basketmouth has proven himself to be a creative whose ability extends beyond his primary area of comedy.

His debut album 'Yabasi' is an astounding display of his ability to bring together artists to deliver on a vision, and his sophomore album 'Horoscopes' shows his relentless commitment to crafting easily enjoyable music.

His third project 'Uburu' brings together sensational talents who are allowed to offer the quintessential version of themselves under Doktor Sett's guidance.

'Uburu' which means 'brain' in Igbo language is a pop project driven by the primary subject of the desire to lead a happy and enjoyable life.

From the quintessential Afrobeats tune crafted by Perruzi to Falz's storytelling down to Boj and Duncan Mighty's serenading Highlife joint, 'Uburu' offers applaudable efforts of the featured acts.

Bayyani and Ghanaian Dancehall sensation Shatta Wale combine for the Swing bounce 'Goal Keeper', where they seamlessly combine for a record that establishes the statement of intention - a good life.

Perruzi is an exemplary songwriter and melody molder and in 'Party', he reminds us of the brilliance he packs in an Afrobeats party starting record. Lojay displays his cadences on the R&B joint 'Jolie Jellof' where his attention-grabbing one-liners combine with his stunning melody for a smooth record.

He brings the best out of Laycon in 'Koko' with Falz also delivering calm flows as they attempt to sweet talk a damsel on a minimalist Doktor Sett production.

Rising sensation Qing Madi combines with Victony for 'Cover Me' for a sleepy record that's better skipped for 'Link Up' the enjoyable Highlife rendition delivered by Boj & Duncan Mighty. And Hip Hop fans get one with the curtain dropper 'Chasing Dreams' by Timi Dakolo, Torrian Ball, and Reminisce.

With the remaining half of the album set to drop next year, the first half feels palpably incomplete. While there are some remarkable songs on it, notably Perruzi's effort and the opener assisted by Shatta Wale and Bayyani, it does appear that the second half of the project might have the records that give the album a comprehensive outlook.

While it's tempting to form an opinion on the album based on the preceding half, it would be better to wait for the release of the second half of the album before deciding how it measures up against Basketmouth's previous projects.

At any rate, the first half of 'Uburu' makes for an easy listen while also being easily forgettable. Perhaps when complete, it would make for a compelling project.