Amaarae’s newest album is a striking and confident follow-up to her acclaimed Fountain Baby, an album that not only reaffirms her unique place in the global music scene but also boldly expands her artistic horizons. From the opening moments of Stuck Up, the listener is immediately immersed in a vibrant atmosphere infused with house beats and infectious energy. This track perfectly sets the tone for what the album promises: a nonstop celebration of fun, sensuality, and uninhibited freedom. The album lives and breathes the spirit of the party, it’s an invitation to move, feel alive, and embrace the pleasure of the moment without reservation.
One of the album’s most compelling strengths lies in its production, which is nothing short of masterful. Each song is meticulously crafted, blending a rich diversity of sounds that effortlessly straddle both global pop and African musical traditions. The hard hitting EDM rhythms of “Fineshyt” sit alongside the hypnotic, tribal drum patterns and chants of “100DRUM”, demonstrating Amaarae’s skill in fusing contemporary production techniques with distinctly African influences. This synthesis of sounds is a hallmark of the album, giving it a dynamic vibrancy that keeps the listener engaged throughout. The production is not merely polished; it feels alive, breathing, and full of texture. Tracks such as “Girlie-Pop” and “S.M.O” stand out as infectious club anthems; bold, catchy, and impossible to ignore. Their energetic hooks and innovative soundscapes showcase Amaarae’s ability to craft songs that are both instantly memorable and refreshingly unique.
Lyrically, the album is a candid and fearless exploration of sexual fluidity, self-expression, and liberation. Amaarae’s vocal delivery is unapologetically authentic, a breath of fresh air in a music industry that often shies away from such frankness. The themes of sexuality and pleasure run deep throughout the album, positioning it as a bold celebration of identity and freedom. However, this thematic consistency, combined with the relentless upbeat tempo, might not resonate with all listeners. The near-constant energy of the album means there are few moments of respite or introspection, which can make the experience feel exhausting over time. Additionally, many tracks feature highly repetitive choruses, a classic formula for crafting hits and ensuring catchiness, but this repetitiveness can sometimes feel draining, especially on a full album listen. Still, this formula works well within the context of Amaarae’s vision. She isn’t attempting to please everyone; she stakes her claim by being boldly, unapologetically herself. This authenticity permeates the album, making even the repetitive moments feel like deliberate choices rather than oversights. The track “Dove Cameron”, with its confident, money-drenched chorus and cryptic title, adds an element of intrigue and mystery to the album’s narrative. Its ambiguous references invite listeners to speculate and engage with the music on a deeper level.
When examining the featured artists, the album presents a mixed picture. Naomi Campbell’s contribution on m60 is a standout highlight. Her backing vocals and iconic outro provide a glamorous runway ready touch that elevates the track and aligns perfectly with its high-fashion vibe. Campbell’s involvement feels purposeful and impactful, adding a distinct flavor that complements Amaarae’s vision. However, other features such as PinkPantheress on “Kiss Me Thru the Phone Pt. 2” and Charlie Wilson on “Dream Scenario” do not quite reach the same level of impact. These collaborators are placed on some of the album’s less memorable songs, which limits their ability to shine or add substantial depth. This is less a reflection on their talent and more about the missed opportunities in song placement and utilization. The features feel somewhat underwhelming, as if their potential wasn’t fully harnessed within the album’s structure. This contrast highlights how strategic placement and song choice are crucial in collaborations, and in this regard, the album falls slightly short.
What truly makes this album resonate is its sheer boldness. Amaarae dives headfirst into complex and often taboo subjects such as sexuality, desire, drugs and freedom, doing so with an unflinching and fearless energy. The album celebrates sexual fluidity and the myriad ways people express themselves, embracing identity and pleasure in ways that feel intimate yet empowering. It’s rare in contemporary music to find such an unapologetic and joyous exploration of these themes, especially wrapped in an energetic, danceable package. The album challenges societal norms and invites listeners to embrace their authentic selves, whether through lyrical content or sonic experimentation. It’s this fearless exploration that sets Amaarae apart, making the album a vibrant declaration of self that demands to be heard and felt.
That said, the album’s pacing can be both a strength and a limitation. The relentless energy is exhilarating but leaves little room for quieter, more reflective moments. The only tentative break in tempo comes with “Dream Scenario”, featuring Charlie Wilson. This track attempts to introduce a slower, more contemplative vibe, with Amaarae’s vocals building tension over a languid beat. Unfortunately, it feels more like an extended tease than a fully realized song, lacking the payoff one might expect. This track, along with others like “She is My Drug” and “Kiss Me Thru the Phone Pt. 2”, despite their strong production, fail to leave a lasting impression or introduce new dimensions to the album. These moments create a slight unevenness in the overall flow, making parts of the album feel like filler rather than essential contributions.
Closing the album on a powerful note is “Free The Youth”, an anthem that transcends the party atmosphere and delivers a socially conscious message. The song features a compelling backing vocal (possibly a sample) that lifts the track’s energy and emotional weight. Amaarae uses this moment to call on young people to break free from societal expectations and limitations, particularly those related to career and traditional paths. It’s an inspiring finale that encapsulates the album’s broader themes of liberation, rebellion, and self-determination, leaving the listener with a lasting sense of empowerment.
Overall, this album is a meticulously curated, original, and engaging work of art. Amaarae has boldly carved out her own space in contemporary music, fearlessly pushing boundaries both sonically and thematically. While its nonstop upbeat tempo and bold messaging may not appeal to everyone, the album undeniably fulfills its promise: a high-energy, sex-positive celebration of identity and freedom. It is an album designed for club nights, late-night drives, and any occasion when you want to feel truly alive and unapologetic.
Rating Breakdown:
• Sound & Production: 2/2
• Lyrics & Writing: 1.2/2
• Performance: 1.6/2
• Originality: 1.8/2
• Replay Value: 1.5/2
Overall Score: 8.1/10