In the days leading up to the release of this EP, an interview surfaced on the net where Skales poured out raw emotions, talking about his personal life and career up and downs and how he has come out of that difficult time stretch feeling a strong sense of peace and appreciation for life. Hence the title of the EP – “Healing Process.”
Listening to this project, it is clear Skales has overcome all he was battling with as he is fully in his elements all through this EP. From the choice of beats to his lyrics and energy, he did his thing without holding back.
True to the project title, Skales kicks off with “God is Good.” On this song he expresses gratitude to God and sends prayers up to the most High. This track is one everyone can relate to, as attested to by the fact that my mother (a Tope Alabi stan) grooved along when I played this to her, lol. Don’t be too surprised if you hear this tune ringing through the walls of some churches in the coming weeks. The lyrics are honest, the beat is catchy and the production ties it all together nicely.
Track number 2 is “Badman Love” and Skales is asking for affection from a fine shorty on this sweet Afrobeat instrumental. Skales really has a good voice and if that’s something you’ve forgotten, he makes sure to remind you of that, exhibiting a good vocal range on this. The lyrics are a bit simplistic but we can forgive that as the other boxes are well ticked.
“Selecta” comes in at number 3 and of all the 7 tracks, this is definitely the one you’ll be hearing most in clubs. The tune invites you to get to dancing from the go and Skales doesn’t disappoint as he rides the beat assuredly. Kudos should also go to the producer here for a job well done.
On the 4th song, we’re back to the more conventional Afrobeat sound with Skales confessing his feelings for a woman. Actually two women namely Amaka and Jecinta, lol. “Done To Me” is a tune sure to make you bop your head along. The next song “On Your Side” tows a similar path, except the beat is even more infectious and Skales works his amazing singing voice even more.
Via his social media, Skales has promised us a rap project very soon and on the last two songs of this EP, he gives us a taste of what that will be like and going by this, I can tell you that rap project will be fire. “Loko” (featuring Walshy Fire) and even though he still sings for the most part of this, the beat is far more energetic and his lyrics are stringed with punchlines, delivered with the air of braggadocio we’ve come to expect from rappers. The last track is “A’Lagos (ft Ice Prince & MC Makopolo) and I promise you Skales absolutely flexes on this trap beat. No singing here, just pure rap with smooth lyrics, flow and delivery. Rap Skales is evidently still in there somewhere and he came out to play amd have fun on this track. Ice Prince’s input to this song is not to be ignored as well, the man finessed all over the beat.
Standout Track(s): Selecta, A’Lagos.
In conclusion, it’s good to see an artiste overcome personal struggles and deliver this level of music. From lyrics to production, this project ticks a lot of boxes amd it’s good to see Skales stay true to his art and exhibit his range with confidence. “The Healing Process” has a clear message for his fans and doubters alike, Skales is not done yet.
Verdict: 8/10
