So We Made A Tape by 99 PHACES

So We Made A Tape

 

A breath of fresh air. That’s the most fitting one-sentence description I could find for this introduction to the five-member Ghanaian music collective. Prior to this release, I only had tracks from the sole non-member feature on this EP, Baaba J, in my rotation. But after going down the rabbit hole and getting into the releases from the members of the group, everyone's getting in. Comprising producers Insvne Auggie and Mel, artists Freddie Gambini, Cozy Pols and Moffy, and with a new sound and amazing talent, I'm confident that 99 PHACES could be the next big thing. What I love the most is how they maintain their individuality while blending their distinct styles into this coherent body of art; So We Made A Tape. And it's not only fun and fresh. It touches on themes that are very much relatable for the average Ghanaian youth. 

Stand Firm

If you're a BOJ fan like me, then this first track hits different. The production is very upbeat, with the percussion taking center stage and supported by smooth chords. The hook is addicting, and each verse is delivered with a clean flow. It's good vibes all round, and the message is straightforward: There's fun to be had and memories to be made, so just focus on what's ahead and let things work themselves out. 

Demons

With a more laid-back production and calm trap vibes, Demons maintains the high of the previous track in terms of quality, carrying its own theme of living their best life in spite of the demons they face. It's a short song but not forgettable- what it lacks in length, it makes up for in relatability and vibes. Moffy's hook is immaculate and flows seamlessly with the verse Freddie delivers. 

Kiddie Time

Kiddie Time is a smash hit (in my room, that is, I've replayed it so many times already). As the single released before this extended playlist, I expected it to set the tone and catch our attention- and it did just that. As a standalone song it's amazing, but it gets even better once you listen to it with the other songs on the EP. Everyone on this song put their best foot forward, from Auggie's production to the electric hook and clean verses.

Baaba's Song

It's short, sweet and simple. Somewhat serving as a split between the two parts if the EP, Baaba J does what she does best- flows. In under a minute, she belts out a beautiful melody and then a few lines of rap, but its still enough to make her mark on this already solid playlist. What I love most about her music style is how she interlaces Ga and English so beautifully (She's recently released an EP titled "Okay Baby Let's Do This", you should check it out). 

Brotherman 

'Brotherman if you don't stack up you go fall in mud my guy'. That's Freddie's genuine message with the hook, and Cozy Pols and Moffy return with enjoyable verses. The string loop and backing vocals on this song are subtle additions that complement the already solid production and beautiful melody, making it a contender for my favourite track on the EP.

Sorry

The boys are a little more vulnerable on this track, with an honest apology to the perfect thing they've had to let go of for reasons outside their control. Although reminiscing on what they're missing, they make it clear that it's for the better. The production on this is very solemn, with the trap vibes still very present but softer.

Mlhnay's Interlude 

On the first listen, this was a continuation of the previous track. That's how smooth this transition was. It's a beautiful melody, well produced by Mel, and perfectly connects with this album's last song.

Survive

The last track is a candid prayer for strength to face the struggles ahead. Kirani Ayat's words of motivation remind us to be focused on our individual paths and to worry less about the journeys of others. Although confident in God's protection, the group is still aware of the darkness around them and prays that they survive it all. 

Summary

So We Made A Tape is refreshing and very real. It's a perfect example of how music can be enjoyable and vulnerable. The Ghanaian music space is very much alive, and we have talented artists like these to make sure we don't forget that. If you're an Afro-trap, Alte or Afro-fusion fan, I'm sure you'll enjoy this extended playlist as much as I did.