14/03/2023
ALBUM REVIEW
AKA- MASS COUNTRY.
GENRE: HipHop, Rap, Amapiano.
Lenght: 14 tracks
FOR THE CULTURE.
The posthumous album of the Eclectic Supa Mega, Fela in versace is a collection of tracks that reminds one of the elements that make hip-hop entertaining. From the well laced verses, to a beat selection that screams GOAT. AKA created a brilliant body of work.
The fact that this may be the last we ever hear from the man, makes it all the more emotional for his fans.
The album kicks of with the track, Last time. For many reasons, I wished it had not. But it was inevitably apt, since, in reality, AKA was gunned down a few days to the release of this album.
The track opens with AKA waxing prophetic about his career. He chronicles his achievements over a long and illustrious reign as the Prince of the South African hip-hop scene.
Mbuzi follows with heavy drums, and long drawn out horns. AKA raps "Jesus is close and the Devil is near." Hip-hop is ignited on this one, blessing my ears with a Lyrically heavy song.
The beat switches and Thato Saul follows, slaying with his indigenous lyrics. I particularly loved how the beat was thinned out during this verse. Mbuzi ends as a song that truly owns it's space on Mass Country.
The low-fi track, Crown, creeps in next. This one is a vibe. AKA's versatility as an artist who can drop bars and one that can tune a melody is reflected on this track. Emtee and Manana grace the track with their well crafted adlibs, hooks, and verses.
"From now till tomorrow, I pray the sun always shines." a hopeful line to end a memorable song.
Lemons(lemonade) featuring new school champion Nasty C is another banger, and one that may have a good run on the charts.
The heavyweight song and my personal favourite, "Prada" steals the show. It features South African hip-hop legend Khuli Chana. A very well made track that houses a top notch beat, and a brilliant performance by AKA. His cadence and Khuli Chana's mastery creates a perfect synergy.
They deliver a track that is not only a beautiful sonic trip but also one that can become Hip-hop culture defining; the likes of ASAP Rocky's fashion Killa.
The bonus track Army is one of my personal favourites and an easy stand out from the album because of the samples employed. If you’re a fitness enthusiast, this one should find it’s way into your workout playlists.
Company is another track that will have a good run on the charts, but in many ways it feels like a reboot of Fela in Versace.
Kddo sprays his magic all over the track to yield a sultry smooth jam!
Mass country is the type of album that many hip-hop fans would expect from the legendary AKA. The album boasts more than one memorable track. The production on the album is stellar and it has a lot of replay value.
If you have the time. Do give it a listen. You may just play it as many times as I have.
My favourite tracks are Prada, Company, and Army.
Because I enjoyed this album, I'll give it an Album Rating of 9.0/10.
May AKA, Supa Mega, Fela in Versace rest in peace.
Cid!
