Riding the wave of his critically acclaimed debut album, The Villain I Never Was, which took the country by storm in 2023, Black Sherif returns, striking while the iron is still hot, with his latest album, Iron Boy.
This project is a bold transition from his breakout beginnings to a new chapter, where he sheds the image of the new kid on the block and confidently steps into his role as one of Ghana’s musical heavyweights. Across 15 powerful tracks, he touts and punches his staying power and artistry, in Iron Mike Tyson style.
Narrative
The title of the latest album pays homage to Ghanaian Highlife legend Amakye Dede’s iconic track of the same name. Black Sherif’s affinity to soul-bearing lyrics often forged from the stories of hustling, paranoia, and the hammered sentiments of resilience and strength, shapes the mold of this sonic masterpiece. Iron Boy is Sherif in his most expressive and cocky mood, setting a more assertive tone for the album.
Production & Sound
Let’s take a moment to applaud Sherif’s longtime producer, Joker, whose brilliance shines through on several tracks. The duo might dominate the Ghanaian music industry for a long time if they keep up the same momentum. It’s an “iron sharpeneth iron” situation, similar to the partnership between Drake and his producer, 40. The production on Iron Boy consists of Hip-Hop/Trap, Afrobeats and Highlife. Credit to the other talented producers who brought depth and polish to the album (Dystinkt Beats, AR Beats, Louddaaa, Samsney, Ayzed, Baba Wvd, Marvio, Lekaa Beats, Dino Pathekas, and Afrolektra).
READ ALSO: Black Sherif Unveils Track List for Iron Boy Album
Standout Tracks
The Victory Song – The opening track of the album takes listeners on a calm ride through Sherif’s musical journey as he battles trials and tribulations, refusing to give in and ultimately emerging triumphant. It’s a befitting introduction, setting the tone for what’s to come.
Sin City – A criminally underrated record with massive replay value if you ask me. Kudos to Jhoker, Marvio, and Samsney for a solid production on the beat. However, the guest artist (Seyi Vibes) falls short, with subpar lines and excessive “charley,” which disrupt Black Sherif’s message of resisting deceitful offers from the devil (could be referring to industry players) at the expense of his sanity. Black Sherif floats effortlessly on this song, with a smooth flow while channelling his inner Ofori Amponsah on the background vocals.
Eye Open – A stripped-down head-bopping Afrobeats tune in its simplistic form, offering a refreshing change from most of the hip-hop and trap layered beats on the album. The song captures the essence of Sherif’s emotional response to pressures from critics, haters, and industry rivals who want to steal his spotlight, keeping him awake and vigilant.
Soma Obi – A soulful plea for divine intervention from the heavens, with chords echoing a Highlife-infused ghetto gospel sound. The message is clear: even though he is the top dog, he still needs protection and guidance on his journey.
Dreamer – Sherif relays cold lyrics against the backdrop of an eerie thumping bass trap/hip-hop beat. Sherif calls himself a big dreamer on the chorus, reminiscing on his career, touting his resilience, and what his fate would have been if he wasn’t dedicated or didn’t make the necessary moves, which has constituted to his current phase as one of the big names at the top.
Where Dem Boyz – With cold nerves of steel and boisterous confidence, Black Sherif, now an apex predator, ruthlessly expresses his dissatisfaction with some unnamed individuals alleged to be the big names in the Ghanaian music space. Basically a “for whom the cap fits” type of vibe.
Iron Boy – No, he didn’t feature the Original Iron Boy (Amakye Dede) as most of us thought he would. Nevertheless, he delivers a hard solo performance on this track, giving you the classic defiant Sherif style, with words of caution for his haters while mentioning how he creates his own happiness despite the numerous backlashes. The song’s chorus bears a resemblance to his earlier hit “Yaya”, where he emphasized taking time to unwind for a clearer mind.
Rating
Some of the songs that were not present in the standout category were not bad; it’s just that they weren’t hitting home. Rebel Music and So It Goes are fantastic tunes we can enjoy. January 9th should have been replaced with Kilos Milos. Body is just Sherif showing a little tenderness and craving passionate affection from his lover. Top of the Morning and Changes were album fillers, if we’re being honest. One and Sacrifices are pleasing to listen to but lack replay value. Overall, Iron Boy stands at a good 7.5 rating.