Maleek Berry's 'If Only Love Was Enough': A Nostalgic Return, But Is It Too Late? [Review]

Maleek Berry, a name synonymous with the early wave of Afrobeats' global expansion, has returned with his debut LP, 'If Only Love Was Enough.' The album, released several years after his initial rise to prominence, offers a nostalgic journey back to the sound that helped bridge the gap between Nigerian pop and international audiences. While the album showcases Berry's undeniable talent as a producer, songwriter, and singer, its relevance in today's rapidly evolving Afrobeats landscape is a question worth exploring.

A Pioneer's Sound, Revisited

In the mid-2010s, as Afrobeats stars like Wizkid and Davido began their forays into the US market, Maleek Berry carved a niche for himself by crafting a sound that seamlessly blended Afrobeats' energy with international influences. His 2016 hit, 'Kontrol,' exemplified this approach, fusing Afrobeats production with elements of Azonto, popularized by Fuse ODG, while incorporating R&B flows and dancehall sensibilities. This "exotic fusion," as it became known, resonated with listeners both in Nigeria and abroad, particularly through his EPs 'Last Daze of Summer' and 'First Daze of Summer.' His template offered a vital blueprint that combined Afrobeat's vigour and fluidity with foreign exotic elements to craft a sound that appealed to international listeners in search of an entry point into Nigerian pop music.

However, with Berry's relative absence from the mainstream in recent years, his role in shaping the sound that propelled Afrobeats to global recognition has been somewhat overlooked. 'If Only Love Was Enough' serves as a reminder of his contributions and a testament to his musical prowess.

Collaborations and Thematic Explorations

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-infused rhythms that Berry has long mastered. The album delves into the complexities of love, romance, and desire, with tracks like 'All of You' expressing yearning and '4 My Body,' featuring Tiwa Savage, showcasing passionate R&B performances. He shines a light on his lover in 'Onyeoma' whose strings and keys add the cultural context of the Highlife wedding melodies that influence Maleek Berry's writing.

Further collaborations include Ruger on 'Lately,' a track that blends Berry's sensual dancehall flows with Ruger's energetic melodies, and Zlatan on a track where Berry adopts the persona of a "Naija Big Man," showcasing the trappings of wealth and success. The Reggae production of 'To The Morning' transports Maleek Berry to the breezy Caribbean Island, where joined by his lover, and they leave all worries behind.

A Sound Out of Time?

Despite the album's strengths, some tracks, like 'Turning Up,' and the charged drums of 'Set It Off' and 'Make It Right', possess a dated quality, reminiscent of earlier releases that mirrored trendy American hip hop tracks. This raises the central question: has the Afrobeats landscape moved on from the sound that Maleek Berry pioneered? While Berry briefly experiments with Log drums on 'Who Be This One,' the album largely adheres to his signature mid-tempo fusion, a sound that may not resonate as strongly with contemporary audiences who have embraced the Amapiano Log drum sound and are constantly seeking the next sonic innovation.

According to music analyst, Chidi Okereke, "Maleek Berry's influence on Afrobeats is undeniable, but the genre has evolved significantly in recent years. While nostalgia can be a powerful tool, it's not always enough to guarantee success in a rapidly changing market. The album needs to offer something fresh and relevant to capture the attention of today's listeners."

Expert Opinion

Music critic Osagie Alonge offers a different perspective: "There's always room for quality music, regardless of trends. While 'If Only Love Was Enough' may not be the most cutting-edge Afrobeats album, it's a well-produced and thoughtfully crafted project that showcases Maleek Berry's artistry. It's a reminder that Afrobeats is a diverse genre with room for different styles and approaches."

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

Verdict: 'If Only Love Is Enough' is a solid album that showcases Maleek Berry's talent and reminds listeners of his contributions to Afrobeats. While its sound may not be entirely in sync with current trends, its quality and artistry are undeniable. It's a victory for Berry, even if it doesn't quite reach champion status.