Alaga Ibile, as he habitually refers to himself, is a legendary figure in indigenous rap who has significantly shaped the Nigerian music landscape. With a career that spans nearly two decades, he has secured his place among the nation’s greatest rappers. His artistic brilliance transcends mere rhythm and poetry, extending into the cinematic realm, which allows him to engage with audiences beyond the confines of music.

In recent years, he has embraced his role as a seasoned veteran, focusing on crafting music for his loyal fanbase; those who cherish indigenous rap interwoven with Fuji and Afrobeats. This commitment is epitomized in his latest project, “Sui Generis,” which embodies a sense of achievement rather than succumbing to the pressures of producing hit songs. Through this approach, he underscores his dedication to authenticity and his desire to connect profoundly with his core audience, celebrating the rich cultural heritage that defines his musical journey.

The album kicks off with the pre-release track “Kupe,” showcasing a powerful blend of metallic beats and confident self-praise. The artist is acutely aware of his status and accomplishments, often boasting about his affluence to assert his position as an “OG before IG.” This declaration not only highlights his experience and influence but also sets the tone for the rest of the album, where themes of success and self-assuredness continue to resonate.

Bad Boy Timz presents a remarkable performance on “Up As Fxck,” positioning it as one of his most distinguished guest appearances to date. This track emerges as a compelling party anthem, encapsulating the exhilaration of living life in the fast lane and reveling in the moment. Set against the backdrop of the characteristic Amapiano fusion sound, it is crafted for mainstream success, as evidenced by its release as a single. This synergy creates an ideal soundtrack for those seeking to enhance their celebratory experiences.

Reminisce has never seized to pride and parade himself as a Fuji artist of which he has done a great job in representing the genre well enough all through his career. Once again, Fuji is well represented in this body of work with the songs “The ultimate” and “Owo”. While both songs have dissimilar themes they both convey the flavorful veritable sense of Fuji music.
“The Ultimate” featuring legendary rapper “vector” is a mid tempo tune solely aimed at paying homage to the king of Fuji music “King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal” as he samples his song “Awa Tunde Batinde”. Both rappers honestly portrayed their love interest and stylishly expressed what life looks like at 40 by emphasizing the importance of family and community. “Owo” on the other hand is an high vibration youthful tune focused majorly on the importance of money in enjoying the vanities of life. A perfect ‘Owambe’ song.

It is expected any great artist on his level to pass the touch and shine the light on the younger generation. Easyscope, Logos Olori, and Bardbanks joined him on the vibrating sound ‘Scopatumana’ which despite being melodic became quite clumsy. The project rounded up with “Backshots” featuring Lucid, a sensual song that highly resonates with both the young and older generations. Lucid did a great job in setting a suitable tempo for Reminisce to thrive.

“Sui Generis” as the name implies is a project of his own kind that was intentionally crafted by an OG to resonate with grown folks and his core fans that have keenly followed the trajectory of his career.

Rating: 7.5/10

_{Written by: Kehinde Adesokan}