This EP showcases Pheelz’s exceptional ability to blend old and new sounds while exploring themes of love, anxiety, and escapism.
By Hope Ibiale
Before releasing the 2022 hit record, “Finesse”, followed by projects like Pheelz Good, Pheelz Good (Triibe Tape), and more recently Pheelz Good II, Phillip Kayode Moses, popularly known as Pheelz, was instrumental in creating records that propelled the careers of artistes like Olamide, Fireboy DML, Runtown, Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, Teni, and many others. His producer tag, “Pheelz Mr. Producer” and “Ri” preceded some of the best songs released in the 2010s.
While music lovers recognised him for his incredible production skills, he took things up a notch with his debut EP Hear Me Out in 2021. A year later, he took control of the dancefloor with “Finesse” featuring BNXN. Since then, any doubts about his potential as an artiste were put to rest when he followed up with the exquisite sophomore EP, Pheelz Good–the first installment of the “Pheelz Good” series.
With his latest project, Pheelz Good II, the producer-turned-singer showcases his creativity, seamlessly blending old records with new sounds to craft a sonic landscape that offers listeners unique experiences.
The project starts with “Fever,” featuring Afro-House artiste, Niniola. The record kicks off on a steamy note as both artistes sing about the passionate moments they have shared with their lovers. The shakers, thumping drums, saxophones, and Niniola’s sexually charged verse effortlessly carry the message of the record. As a project opener, “Fever” has an infectious energy that is guaranteed to keep listeners engaged until the end.
In “Majo”, he demonstrates his expertise as a music connoisseur by interpolating Adewale Ayuba’s 2004 record, “Ijo Fuji”. By retaining some parts of Ayuba’s hit track, he pays homage to the beauty of old Nigerian music and showcases how artistes can still draw inspiration from timeless records. “Majo” is a perfect follow-up to “Fever”, thanks to his creative delivery, up-tempo production, and seamless interpolation.
The next track, “Kamakaze”, draws inspiration from Olu Maintain’s 2009 record, “Karmakazee”. While the Maintain’s record focuses on living life to the fullest, Pheelz’s version serves as a platform for him to express his anxieties and life struggles. The joyful atmosphere in the previous records on the EP is forgotten for a while, as he talks about escaping reality by consuming recreational drugs. He sings, “This kind of thing e dey burst my head so I just roll up a j instead. Anxiety gets the best of me sometimes and it’s been hurting me”.
In “Yeye”, he starts afresh with a new relationship. Despite ongoing battles with anxiety, he chooses to revel in the joy his new love interest brings him. The up-tempo production reflects the happiness he feels at the moment.
The same steamy atmosphere in “Fever” is revisited in “Rotate”. While the former is an upbeat record, the latter is slower and accompanied by seductive guitar strings, basslines, and the artiste’s sultry vocals. With “’Rotate”, Pheelz Good II concludes just as it began—on a steamy note.
Pheelz Good II is an enjoyable project that shines through its cohesiveness in themes and production style, enhancing its replay value and building anticipation for his next project—hopefully, his debut album. This EP showcases Pheelz’s exceptional ability to blend old and new sounds while exploring themes of love, anxiety, and escapism.
With this project, Pheelz continues to establish his presence in the music industry, solidifying his legacy as an outstanding artiste. The EP could have been longer to allow for a deeper exploration of themes and emotions, providing a richer and more immersive experience for listeners. Noticeably, its brevity might be a strategic move to keep listeners eagerly anticipating his next project
Lyricism – 1
Tracklisting – 1.1
Sound Engineering – 1.5
Vocalisation – 1.4
Listening Experience – 1.4
Rating – 6.3/10
Hope Ibiale is a writer and journalist. She has a keen interest in music, film, and literature. You can connect with Hope on X @hopeibiale and via email: hopeibiale@afrocritik.com.