Hmn…I listened!! I listened and I was swept away by the
enchanting vocals and infectious rhythms of Dottie the deity's latest
album, "Madam Dearest PART.1."
It's been a long time since I heard something truly organic
in music— Songs where the magic isn't attributed to the instrumentals but its
presence permeates through the lyrics, the melodies, the arrangements, and the
vocals, making it so so so unforgettable.
I will keep it a hundred with you. In a sea of manufactured
Naija Afro-pop love songs ehh, "Madam Dearest PART.1." is a breath of
fresh air.
Let’s start with the album art, featuring an image of D0TTi
and Madam Dearest I suppose, evokes a sense of timeless romance, blending some
form of nostalgia with modernity. For long-time fans and friends of D0TTi, you
will agree with me that the album art perfectly depicts D0TTi’s signature
sound, where traditional/folk music meets contemporary flair.
From the moment you press play on the album, starting with
the track “Hello Sisi” featuring the enchanting Wizard Chan "
you're transported into the world of the irumole where the rhythms of Dotti’s
soul orchestrates the soulful journey of Afro Rhythm and Blues – one hell of a
mixture that promises more musical delights. I tell you this is an inviting
start.
Na so I start am! This album , a fusion of Afrobeat and
R&B, is poised to take listeners on a rollercoaster of chills, thrills,
laughter, and enough vibes.
After replaying track 1 several times, as a big fan of
Wizard Chan, I finally released the loop/repeat button to move on to the next
track. The moment I heard the energetic guitar and infectious percussion, I
instantly recognized it as the song from his listening party last year,
"Balablu" or "Bulaba" — a tune that stuck with me. I'm sure
everyone at the party will be singing along to the catchy and unforgettable
chorus, reminiscent of the original "Balablu," currently running the
lives of over 200 million people. God Abeg!!
If you know what I am talking about, this track “Balablu”
will probably be your instant favorite.
And then you hear “Be My Darling (ft. PC Lopez)- to me, this
is the ultimate romantic anthem.
It features heartfelt lyrics and soothing background vocals that
gives me the vibe of the melodious style of music sung by the Naija Cherubim
and Seraphim, “awon orin emi’. The percussion by phleksib adds a rhythmic depth
that complements the guitars beautifully.
Then Big Shirt & Boxers (ft. Reminisce). Featuring the
legendary Reminisce. I didn't dwell too long on this song because I dan too ear
am. I guess because it was initially released as a single and I held on to it
as I salivated in anticipation to feast on the album.
Oh Hosanna “Suzanna” – Another Anthem! A melodic
masterpiece, "Suzanna" showcases Dotti's vocal range and lyrical
prowess. The story line is captivating. Now when you get to the chorus you'll
find yourself lost in time, wanting to start again. The interplay of guitars
and percussion adds another layer of complexity to enjoy and at exactly 2:03
minute into the second chorus Dottie enters into his “irumole”(deity) mode
exerting his vibe of the melodious style of music sung by the Naija Cherubim
and Seraphim into my ears. Dotti "wo emi lo"- his presence is
undeniable. Let me warn you, this track should be listened to 2 times in the
morning , 2 times at noon, and 4 times at night.
Anything more than this and you risk getting addicted.
Sinmilemi (Interlude)- my gospel moment of the album,
transporting me back to church and the heartfelt singing of CAC hymns.
Intelligently composed, this brief interlude features delicately arranged keys,
background vocals, and subtle musical intricacies at 1:39/40 mint. This was the
peaceful moment for listeners to pause and reflect on Dottie’s musical
creativity.
Ololufe – I think it is a love ballad that resonates with
sincerity and emotion. At 1:33/34 there was something Dotti did impressively
with his vocals that reminds me of an old South African Artist. I didn’t know
when I stood up from my chair at the office and tears rolled down my eye lids—
the pure joy of hearing an artist pour his soul into his art, perfectly
capturing a sound that speaks of thoughtful execution. I was stuck on this song
for a while!!
This next one, first join me in saying a little prayer for
the Producer/Mixer of this song ‘Madam Dearest (ft. Falz). He did a thing! They
truly worked wonders! Falz enters with his signature delivery, then transitions
to a style reminiscent of J. Cole. Around 1:55, there's a moment that channels
Mali Music, with powerful declarations of love and devotion. The arrangement is
rich and lush, allowing Falz to showcase his lyrical talent and Dottie to
demonstrate his vocal range. Together, I believe they effortlessly create a
beautiful synergy full of collaborative energy.
At this point of the journey into Afro Rhythm and Blues I
think I have had enough already.
Forever Sweet Remix (ft. Simi) was me overfeeding.
I mean the euphoria of “forever sweet” still lingers; for months, every woman I
sat next to, and on TikTok got hooked on this song. Simi's infectious melodies
on the remix brings a fresh and sweet vibe to the track, making it a continuing
feel-good anthem perfect for any “owambe”
Carry Me Go – I honestly wish Chike could be on this
track. This track is both uplifting and soothing. Listen out for 1:45mint of
this track. I love the riff (a short repeated phrase in music typically used as
an introduction or refrain in a song).
Now, if you're a X/Twitter user like me and you know
Vaderthewildcard (Samo Agbero), you'll hurriedly want to listen to "Madam
Dearest (Reprise) (ft. Vader The Wildcard aka SAMO AGBERO). By the way, Vader
is an amazing rap artist. The album closes with this reprise of track 8, 'Madam
Dearest (ft. Falz),' perfectly concluding the journey of Afro Rhythm and Blues.
You know what!! Dotti left me joyfully speechless, as I
think he created a masterpiece in the gallery of Naija Afro-pop love songs.
Look, Dotti did me dirty, I feel like a Deity
Do check out "Madam Dearest PT.1" here
https://ffm.to/madamdearestpt1
You will thank me later.
Written by: Niyi Iwasanmi
