Rema has secured a firm threshold as one of the core creators amongst the new generation of Nigerian music stars. releasing three EPs in the formative years of his career, and undoubtedly could be regarded as one of the most influential forces in his generation.
Rave & Roses unfolds Rema’s progression from pre-birth to the rambunctious presence he commands today. The experiences he chose to deliver to us, are from a kaleidoscope of encounters unique to a star of his caliber and age.
Rema weaves the story of his beginning upon lucid strings and kicks on the opening song, a cut made from his real name – “Divine”, which becomes an x-ray of his beginning right from birth. “Hold Me”, is a love song and 6lack’s input was a perfect addition.
In “Time N Affection” Rema creates a love ballad that beckons a love interest, wooing her with all of his prized possessions. Chris Brown comes through seamlessly to make what is likely to be a sonic staple-piece of the summer to come.
“Addicted” is a standout record on this album, he took Afrobeats and global Pop and mixed them together for a fine blend. “Are You There?”, is another standout track, dancehall record in rhythm, and a conscious record in lyrics. Rema cleared the air about the negative in his country, his positivity, not being an activist, and the free will he has to wield his music.
In “Runaway,” is another special song in which Rema sings his affection and love in a way that should define his experience as one that understands true love and affection, not only about sex and fandom. “FYN” possesses an abundance of suave, Rema chronicles a lifestyle that can’t be fully grasped if you haven’t lived it, AJ Tracey is fairly new to Afrobeats, but he came correct regardless.
“Jo” is a groove and an attempt to make you roll on the dance floor. The mid-tempo “Mara” is another love song that becomes an instrument he used to describe his woman and more. “Oroma Baby” is the story about the woman he met along the line who seems to have ruined him with her love and then, he promises to grab her and not let go. Spanish singer Yseult‘s effort on “Wine” was smooth, and their chemistry seemed unforced. Speaking with Apple Music, Rema indicated that the love songs on this album filled the ‘Roses’ part of its concept.
“Calm Down” could be regarded as one of the best songs of the album alongside “Addicted” and “Are You There?”, they are this writer’s favourites. “Soundgasm” as usual is an experience in Rema’s creativity, the record portrays sexuality and fandom, even as the title of the song is a picture of a sound that has reached a climax state due to a sexual peak perhaps from Rema’s vocal range which takes the sound to that level.
While the album is something colourful which means that it was so diverse naturally, in between Rema is focused on taking the culture to the faces of many listeners as well as expanding his creative range as a pop star. Imagine an act that took the feminine focal point on an album and expressed it differently, it is genius and magical.
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