With M$NEY, Asake delivers a heavy-hearted, retrospective body of work that reflects the price of global fame. However, the project suffers from a slow, predictable start. The introductory tracks feel like a formulaic continuation of his previous work, drowning the listener in a sense of déjà vu. The predictable Amapiano logs and familiar saxophone loops offer little surprise, making the record feel stagnant at first.
Everything changes with the fourth track, « Rora. » This song successfully breaks the repetitive dynamic and serves as the true beginning of the album. It hooks the listener instantly with a refreshing tempo change and an addictive vocal arrangement. « Rora » alters the trajectory of the project, injecting the distinct energy required to keep the audience engaged.
From this point forward, the album showcases exactly what we have come to love about the Nigerian superstar. The production, spearheaded by his trusted collaborator Magicsticks, is completely impeccable and boasts an incredibly high-quality instrumentation. The spiritual dimension remains a core pillar of his universe, elevated by the signature, church-like choral backing vocals. Tracks like « Worship, » featuring French producer DJ Snake, blend this deep spiritual aura with modern club sensibilities. Meanwhile, « Amen » stands out as a beautiful prayer of gratitude, capturing the exact sonic identity that defined his meteoric rise to stardom.
While some critics argue that the project lacks artistic risk, one fundamental question arises: why change a winning formula? Asake stays completely loyal to his roots and his fanbase. This dedication shines on « Badman Gangsta, » where he collaborates with French rapper Tiakola, delivering an infectious cross-cultural anthem. Additionally, « Asambe, » featuring South African Amapiano pioneer Kabza De Small, injects a pure, unadulterated log-drum feast that solidifies the back half of the record.
Ultimately, M$NEY is not an evolution, but a celebration of consistency. Once it gets past its slow start, the album blossoms into a beautifully produced spiritual journey. Asake knows his strengths, and by remaining faithful to his distinctive sound, he cements his status as a master of modern Afrobeats.