Emmeno has already been earmarked as one of the leaders of the new school of producers, reshaping the sounds of the Nigerian music industry; he already has a strong discography, studded with quality music and enviable collaborations.
On November 13, 2020, he released to the world, his debut project titled, “Long Nights, Short Mornings”. The EP, which features 4 artistes rapping and singing on beats produced by the man himself, is Emmeno announcing himself in a more emphatic way, as a producer ready to take forefront after years of doing great work in the background.
SONG-BY-SONG REVIEW
The project starts off with a 7-second intro, featuring the voice of Hip-hop legend, Notorious B.I.G, saying the words “Do me a favour and zoom in on my originality”. What may seem like a forgettable introduction to many, is actually a bold statement of intent and promise of quality by Emmeno ahead of the 3 songs that are to follow.
Track 2, the first proper song on the project, is “Trouble” and it features Maka, singing on a chilled Hip-hop beat that somehow manages a brilliant fusion of old school vibes and new school sounds. On this delightful instrumental, Maka sings about a desperate and stubborn love. Her vocal and lyrical performance is quality and does justice to the beat.
Next up is “Spirit Free”, featuring rap artistes Phlow and BarelyAnyHook. This is straight heat, with a classic Hip-hop cypher feel to it. Both artistes deliver fantastic punchline-studded verses on either side of a tantalizing hook. This particular song most captures the originality talked about on the intro, the originality Emmeno is fast gaining recognition for.
“Cover You” with Frescool, the only promoted single on the EP, rounds up this fine project as track number 4. The beat is another Emmeno masterpiece and the featured singer makes unending love promises on this catchy, Afro-fusion sound—a fitting end to a truly original project.
STANDOUT TRACK: Spirit Free.
