MIXTAPE REVIEW: ODUMODUBLVCK [@ODUMODUBLVCK_] – ‘EZIOKWU (UNCUT)’ 

Afro-grime sensation Odumodublvck has risen from the calm city of Abuja to becoming an internationally known artist with global appeal. His last mixtape ‘EZIOKWU’, released in October 2023, debuted at Number 10 on the Spotify UK Weekly Charts and at number 1 on the TurnTable Top 50 charts in Nigeria. With a core fanbase who latch onto his every word and a long line of hit songs that have driven his appeal to the next level, Odumodublvck’s winning streak has truly begun. With his strong cultural references and his ability to blend innovative imagery with his original storytelling style, Odumodublvck has become the international face of Afro-Grime. In this current stage of expanding the Afro-Grime sound and blending the hard-hitting elements of Drill with his baritone vocal style, Odumodublvck has returned with the deluxe edition of ‘EZIOKWU’ titled ‘EZIOKWU (Uncut)‘ which features 7 brand new singles on top of the original 14 tracks. This review focuses on the 7 new tracks.  

Kicking off the deluxe mixtape is ‘Abuja People’ featuring Decosuave produced by Oshow Daviz. Odumodublvck starts this track strong with his signature delivery while Decosuave matches his energy with a solid hook. ‘Abuja People’ is the perfect ode to his city while tapping into the traditional Igbo highlife sounds. Teaming up with his Hip-Hop collective Anti-World Gangsters on the smooth single ‘Hotel Lobby’, Odumodublvck showcases his versatility. This Gothicissues and Cross-produced track has the perfect blend of R&B-infused melodies, sultry vocal delivery and one-of-a-kind storytelling from Odumodublvck and the Anti-World Gangsters. 

‘Badman Bounce’ featuring fellow Anti-World Gangster Reeplay and legendary Nigerian singer/songwriter Duncan Mighty is a great listen. The raunchy lyrics and imagery may surprise new Odumodublvck fans, but this lyrical style speaks to Odumodublvck’s unique musicality and artistry. Duncan Mighty’s verse on this single adds such sweetness, delivering lyrics in Igbo and Pidgin English, while beautifully gliding on this Mr Brxlliant and Spykida-produced beat. Reeplay on the other hand, brings back that rough, rugged and raw energy to end the track. Next is the sensual song ‘Minimal Fuss’ where Odumodublvck opens the track with his smooth falsetto vocals. Alte pioneer BOJ shows off his signature style on this single. The name of this track perfectly matches the vibe as it’s such an effortless and easy listen.

West meets South on the Afro-Drill track ‘A1 Perico’ as Odumodublvck enlists South African Rapper Nasty C and fellow Nigerian Singer/Songwriter Mizzle. This Buci Buci and Spykida-produced track allows all three artists to shine, displaying witty wordplay, effortless vocal delivery and smooth melodies. ‘No Protocol’ featuring Nigerian singer/songwriter Teni and Dancehall musician Masicka is yet another solid track featuring two artists with very distinct styles. Teni (along with Odumodublvck) flows effortlessly on this Wizical and Emrld-produced beat while Masicka brings his Dancehall flair. 

The final brand new track on ‘EZIOKWU (Uncut)’, ‘Woto Woto Seasoning’ is a mid-tempo track filled with layers of intricate production, catchy lyrics and syncopated drums that you can easily vibe to. Ghanaian Rapper Black Sherif takes this track to another level with his signature flow and thought-provoking lyrics delivered in Twi. ‘EZIOKWU (Uncut)’ also features fan favourites from the previously released project ‘EZIOKWU’ including viral single ‘Declan Rice’ (his first number 1 song), Kubolor featuring Ghanaian songstress Amaarae and ‘Blood On The Dance Floor’ featuring rising star Bloody Civilian and Nigerian-American Rapper Wale. 

Overall, ‘EZIOKWU (Uncut)’ is a solid project serving the ecstatic energy of Grime, the twisty grooves of Afrobeats along with the hard-hitting elements of Drill. Odumodublvck pierces through with pummeling charisma, Highlife-inspired melodies and versatility. If you haven’t listened to ‘EZIOKWU (Uncut)’, give it a listen below :

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