Fresh from a 21-month prison stint, Pa Salieu wasted no time channeling his experiences into a transformative body of work (Afrikan Alien). Arriving at Angelic Studios with three blue prison bags and a broad grin, the British-Gambian rapper turned to his battered A4 notepad, filled with reflections on family, freedom, and the alienation of being African in the UK. These cell block daydreams became the foundation of Afrikan Alien. This mixtape captures confrontation and cleansing through a dynamic fusion of rap, Afrobeats, spiritual mantras, and rhythmic log drums. In just over 27 minutes, Salieu crafts a deeply personal narrative and hints at a new blueprint for pan-African pop music, blending resilience and innovation into a thoroughly convincing sound.
The title Afrikan Alien encapsulates the duality of Salieu’s experience as an artist straddling cultures. “Afrikan” reflects his deep-rooted connection to his Gambian heritage, while “alien” signifies his otherness in the diaspora. This duality is explored through themes of belonging, survival, and self-discovery. The mixtape’s narrative arc feels intentional, taking listeners on a journey from struggle to self-realization.
Salieu’s lyrical content is rich and introspective, addressing various issues and he also showcases his playful side. Yet, it’s equally celebratory, showcasing the vibrancy of African culture and its indelible mark on global music. Join us as we explore the depths of Pa Salieu’s Afrikan Alien in this detailed album review.
Pa Salieu’s Artistic Journey Through Afrikan Alien
Pa Salieu’s Afrikan Alien is a dynamic mixtape that showcases his growth as an artist. The album consists of 11 tracks, each contributing to a cohesive narrative that reflects his journey and experiences.
The mixtape opens with a brief yet impactful intro that sets the tone for the entire project. In just 19 seconds, Pa Salieu establishes an atmosphere filled with anticipation and energy, inviting listeners to embark on this sonic journey.
Following the intro, “Afrikan Di Alien” features Ghanaian artist Black Sherif, creating a powerful collaboration that blends their distinct styles. Salieu’s verses are introspective and reflective, touching on his African roots and the complexities of his dual identity. Black Sherif complements this with his narrative, adding depth to the conversation about belonging and cultural pride.
In “Belly,” Pa Salieu delves into his personal journey, using vivid imagery to portray his struggles and triumphs. This track, marking his first release after a significant period, features a catchy hook and rhythmic beats. Salieu’s confident delivery and lyrical prowess shine through as he navigates themes of ambition and perseverance. The song balances introspection with an upbeat vibe, making it memorable.
“Ya Zee” shifts the mood with its playful energy and catchy melody. Here, Salieu explores themes of love and attraction, using clever wordplay to engage listeners. The production features bright instrumentals that enhance the track’s lightheartedness, making it a standout moment on the mixtape. Salieu’s vocal delivery is smooth and melodic, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Diverse Influences and Cohesive Storytelling
The collaboration with Byron Messia on “Soda” brings a refreshing sound to the mixtape. This track combines elements of Afrobeat with contemporary hip-hop, creating an infectious groove that invites listeners to dance. Both artists deliver engaging verses that highlight their unique styles while maintaining a cohesive sound. The playful lyrics about enjoyment and celebration resonate well, making it a perfect party anthem.
“Round & Round” takes a more introspective approach as Salieu reflects on relationships and emotional complexities. The production is softer, featuring melodic elements that enhance the vulnerability in his lyrics. Salieu’s ability to convey deep emotions through his delivery makes this track particularly impactful, allowing listeners to connect with his experiences on a personal level.
In “Dece (Heavy),” Salieu showcases his storytelling abilities through vivid narratives about life challenges and societal issues. The beat is heavier, creating a more serious tone that contrasts with earlier tracks. His flow is assertive, emphasizing the weight of his words as he addresses themes of struggle and resilience in the face of adversity.
The mixtape concludes with “Allergy,” a track that encapsulates the overarching themes of Afrikan Alien. Here, Salieu reflects on personal growth and the importance of self-acceptance amidst external pressures. The production features layered sounds that create an atmospheric backdrop for his introspective lyrics. This closing track leaves listeners with a sense of hope and empowerment, rounding out the mixtape beautifully.
Overall, Afrikan Alien is a clear testament to Pa Salieu’s artistic evolution and, moreover, his ability to skillfully weave together diverse influences into a cohesive body of work. Additionally, each track uniquely contributes to the narrative he presents, thereby making it not only an enjoyable listen but also a profound and thoughtful exploration of identity and culture in today’s world.
