If you’re seeking a project that offers depth and substance, Fireboy DML’s latest album, Adedamola, is a perfect choice. This album marks Fireboy’s fourth significant contribution to the music scene since his breakthrough in Nigeria and beyond. Some critics argue that Afrobeats lacks substance, but Fireboy DML challenges this notion with Adedamola. This album not only showcases how Fireboy has grown as an artist but also highlights his consistent ability to deliver what he’s known for. With this project, Fireboy proves that he’s an artist who deserves attention.
The title of Fireboy DML’s album, Adedamola, carries significant personal meaning for the artist. Derived from his birth name, Adedamola Adefolahan, the title reflects a deep connection to his identity and heritage. Fireboy has expressed that the album is a culmination of his experiences and lessons learned over the past few years, particularly in 2023. He describes it as “so personal and nostalgic, like a call to home. The title signifies Fireboy’s roots and highlights the themes of love, loss, and personal growth throughout the album. Fireboy’s fourth studio album, Adedamola, has already become a success since its release, breaking records and setting new ones for the artist. This deeply personal project showcases his growth as both a musician and an individual. Featuring 14 tracks, Adedamola includes collaborations with notable artists like Lojay, Lagbaja, Seun Kuti, and Grammy-nominated Jon Batiste, blending Afrobeats, R&B, and pop influences.
Fireboy is one of the few artists that does what he’s doing in the Nigerian music industry, he is a unique and versatile artist. This album doesn’t shy away from versatility, with each track bringing a fresh vibe and style to listeners. Some who have listened to the album already have expressed their opinions that “Adedamola” is like a rebirth of “Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps”. “LTG” was his debut album in the music industry, that was the album that made him who he is today in the music industry.
Fireboy has consistently released albums since his emergence in the industry, with 2023 being the only exception, leaving fans eager for something new. He has exceeded expectations with his latest work, delivering on the anticipation from audiences worldwide. Over his five-year journey, he has released Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps, Apollo, Playboy, and now Adedamola. Fireboy surprised everyone with unexpected collaborations on this project, featuring legends like Lagbaja and Seun Kuti, which added depth and a new dimension to the album.
Fireboy DML has always been known as a lover boy, but he has expanded beyond that theme in his music journey. Drawing from his experiences and lessons learned, he pours his heart into crafting a solid body of work. While the album isn’t without its flaws, which will be highlighted in this review, it remains a strong project and a must-listen for all music lovers.
Fireboy DML’s “Adedamola”: Review
The album opens with “Iseoluwa,” a reflective track that serves as a diary entry. Here, Fireboy expresses gratitude for his journey and the blessings he has received. This introspective tone sets the stage for the personal nature of the album. Fireboy explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth throughout the project.In all the albums Fireboy has ever released, he has never missed in any of his introduction songs. “Iseoluwa” is not just any kind of intro. The song also derives inspiration from Fuji legendary singer Haruna Ishola “Ise Oluwa” lyrics. He uses “Ise Oluwa ko seni toye” in his lyrics. The quoted phrase explains that no human can understand the works of God.
As the track draws listeners into Fireboy’s world, it seamlessly transitions into “Call Me,” which is the second track in the album. Fireboy channels an infectious 80s disco vibe, merging nostalgic sounds with contemporary Afrobeats. This track stands out for its upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus, appealing to audiences while showcasing his versatility as an artist. It’s a 10/10 jam. The lyrics revolve around themes of longing and connection, making it relatable and danceable. It is perfect for both parties and intimate moments.
Moving forward, featuring the legendary Seun Kuti, “Ecstasy” delves into themes of desire and sensuality. The collaboration infuses the track with rich instrumentation, blending Afrobeat elements with contemporary sounds. Fireboy’s smooth vocals juxtaposed against Kuti’s powerful delivery create a dynamic interplay that elevates the song’s emotional depth, making it a standout moment on the album. “Ecstasy” is definitely a standout Afrobeats RnB jam. This richness in sound and emotion leads into “Hell and Back,” where Fireboy expresses his feelings of what Erima has done to him after putting him through hell and back. “Hell and Back” is a heartbreak song that would resonate well with listeners.
The album transitions into “Letting Go,” a collaboration with Lojay that explores releasing and moving forward in relationships. The chemistry between the artists is clear, though Lojay’s delivery doesn’t fully showcase his signature style. The song’s catchy hook and smooth transitions make it engaging. Fireboy then explores relationship dynamics with “Back N Forth,” featuring the iconic Lagbaja. This track infuses the album with vibrant Afrobeat rhythms, celebrating love’s playful yet complex nature. Lagbaja’s nostalgic sound, combined with Fireboy’s fresh style, makes “Back N Forth” a memorable, joyous celebration of romance, with some even calling it a potential Grammy contender.
Following this, “Ready” emerges as a powerful collaboration that merges Fireboy’s Afrobeats style with Jon Batiste’s soulful influence. The track speaks to the readiness for love and life’s challenges, with both artists delivering passionate performances. This blend of influences continues in “Wande’s Bop,” a high-energy anthem that pays homage to Afropop legend Wande Coal. The infectious beat and catchy lyrics make it a perfect party track, celebrating the joy of music and dance. Fireboy’s playful delivery, combined with DJ Spinall’s production, creates a vibrant atmosphere that encapsulates the essence of celebration.
As the album progresses, “Change Your Life” encourages transformation and personal growth with its uplifting message and engaging melody. It highlights how change can bring new opportunities, adding empowerment to the album. The theme of love continues in “Obaa Sima,” a romantic ballad that captures the beauty of devotion. “Obaa Sima,” meaning “woman of substance” in Ghanaian, stands out as a notable love song on the album.
Next, “Need Me” explores longing and dependency in relationships. Fireboy’s emotive delivery captures yearning, creating a melancholic yet beautiful soundscape that resonates with listeners. The emotional depth continues in “Yawa,” one of the album’s most popular tracks. Its infectious beat, catchy hooks, and Fireboy’s delivery appeal to a broad audience, balancing lightheartedness with deeper emotional undertones.
Finally, “Everyday” offers a feel-good track that celebrates the small joys of daily love life. The song is a love song that will resonate well with listeners as it delves into the theme of love and longing. This journey culminates with “Jon’s Interlude,” a reflective pause in the album featuring Jon Batiste. The interlude encapsulates instrumentals that gives a feeling of introspection and personal growth present throughout “Adedamola”. It provides a moment of contemplation, allowing listeners to absorb the journey Fireboy has shared in the preceding tracks. It reinforces the album’s emotional depth and serves as a fitting conclusion to the project.
SETBACKS IN THE ALBUM
While “Adedamola” is a commendable effort from Fireboy DML, it faces a few setbacks that may affect its reception. The album exhibits a monotony in themes, with some tracks feeling repetitive in their exploration of love and relationships, which leads to predictability. Additionally, the transitions between songs can be unexpected, particularly with the closing track, “Jon’s Interlude,” which might leave listeners feeling disconnected. Finally, the album struggles with comparisons to Fireboy’s previous works, such as “Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps” and “Playboy”, which set a high standard and may cause some listeners to view “Adedamola” as less impactful or innovative.
In Adedamola, Fireboy DML has crafted an album that is not just a collection of songs, but a story a story of a young man navigating his way through life and love. It is an album worth listening to and it has a great replay value. It is one that solidifies Fireboy DML’s place in the Afrobeats scene. His boss, Olamide, also plays a great role in the production of the album as being part of the executive producers and A&R.
