Maleek Berry's 'If Only Love Was Enough': A Late but Welcome Nostalgic Return? [Review]

Maleek Berry, a pivotal figure in shaping the contemporary Afrobeats sound, has returned with his debut LP, 'If Only Love Was Enough.' While the album arrives several years after his initial impact, it serves as a potent reminder of his influence and contributions to the genre's global rise. The album, a fusion of R&B, dancehall, and Afrobeats elements, showcases Berry's signature sound but faces the challenge of resonating with an audience that has largely moved on to newer sonic territories.

A Pioneer's Return

In the mid-2010s, as Afrobeats stars like Wizkid and Davido began their forays into the US market, Maleek Berry's music offered a vital bridge. He crafted a sound that seamlessly blended the energy of Afrobeats with international influences, providing an accessible entry point for global listeners. His 2016 hit, 'Kontrol,' exemplified this approach, merging Afrobeats production with Azonto-inspired drum patterns and R&B melodies, all delivered with a mix of Pidgin English and Yoruba.

His early EPs, 'Last Daze of Summer' and 'First Daze of Summer,' further solidified his position as a key innovator. However, his subsequent absence from the mainstream allowed others to build upon his template, potentially overshadowing his original contributions. The question now is whether 'If Only Love Was Enough' can re-establish his relevance in a rapidly evolving musical landscape.

Album Highlights and Collaborations

To connect with a new generation of listeners, Maleek Berry enlists the help of some of Afrobeats' biggest names. His collaboration with Wizkid on 'Situation' sees the Grammy winner comfortably navigating the R&B and Caribbean rhythms that Berry has long championed. The album explores themes of love, romance, and desire, with tracks like 'All of You' showcasing Berry's yearning vocals. Tiwa Savage lends her vocals to '4 My Body,' while Ruger adds his signature melodies to 'Lately.' Other collaborations include Zlatan on a track that embraces the "Naija Big Man" persona.

Expert Perspective: The Timing Conundrum

Music industry analyst, Chioma Okafor, notes, "Maleek Berry's return is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a welcome dose of nostalgia for those who remember his early work. On the other hand, Afrobeats has moved on significantly. The dominant sounds of Amapiano and other emerging subgenres mean he's fighting an uphill battle to capture the attention of younger audiences who may not be familiar with his earlier contributions. The collaborations are smart, but the overall sound needs to feel fresh, not just reminiscent."

Dated Sounds and Missed Opportunities

While the album showcases Berry's talent as a producer, songwriter, and singer, some tracks, such as 'Turning Up,' 'Set It Off,' and 'Make It Right,' feel somewhat dated. This is due to the prevailing shift in Afrobeats towards the Amapiano log drum sound and other contemporary trends. While 'Who Be This One' incorporates log drums, the album largely sticks to Berry's signature mid-tempo fusion, potentially limiting its appeal to a wider audience.

Historical Context: Afrobeats Evolution

The evolution of Afrobeats from its roots in Fela Kuti's Afrobeat to its current global dominance has been marked by constant innovation and adaptation. Early pioneers like 2face Idibia and D'banj laid the groundwork for the genre's commercial success, while artists like Wizkid and Davido propelled it onto the international stage. Maleek Berry's contribution lies in his ability to blend Afrobeats with R&B and other genres, creating a sound that resonated with a global audience. However, the current landscape is characterized by a diverse range of subgenres, including Amapiano, Afro-house, and Alte, making it challenging for artists to maintain relevance without adapting to these new sounds.

Final Verdict

Despite the quality of the music and Maleek Berry's undeniable talent, 'If Only Love Is Enough' faces the challenge of being released in a rapidly evolving musical landscape. While the album offers a nostalgic reminder of Berry's contributions to Afrobeats, its dated sound may limit its appeal to a new generation of listeners. Ultimately, the album serves as a testament to Berry's artistry but falls short of fully capturing the current zeitgeist.

Pulse Rating:

Album Sequencing: 1.4/2 Songwriting, Themes, and Delivery: 1.3/2 Production: 1.5/2 Enjoyability and Satisfaction: 1.4/2 Execution: 1.4/2

TOTAL - 7.0