Kold AF is one of the women at the forefront of the new uprising of female Afropop singers. She announced her arrival in 2022 with the release of Kold Szn, a two-single pack that showcased what her artistry was about. However, it was Pisces, a single she had released earlier that year alongside Mo’Gunz, that made this writer take a keen interest in her talent. Since 2022, she has steadily climbed the ladder of the industry, releasing compelling music and finding pockets of success in the process.
She released her debut project Kollide in 2023 alongside French producer BRGZ. The project wasn’t this writer’s bread and butter, despite housing some strong records. Alongside Aema, she released No Pity, a powerful record that discusses the issue of sexual abuse that women are forced to contend with in our society. If we were living in a forward-thinking society, the National Orientation Agency would be all over that record.
Kold AF’s music cuts across Afropop, R&B, and dancehall. On this project, she commits to exploring dancehall, finding comfort in catchy riddims and deep bass lines while displaying her distinctive vocal style with unapologetic confidence.
Kold AF opened Kaution EP with 365, a chest-thumping anthem delivered in Patois where her bold vocals take centre stage, declaring her unwavering dedication to building her syndicate—365 days a year, no holidays. With each lyric, she cements her status as a force to be reckoned with, her self-assurance and determination palpable in every line. The song radiates an infectious energy and captures her unstoppable drive and passion.
She establishes her commitment to enjoying life like she’s got nine. On 9 Lives featuring the super-talented Bkay EastGaad, she revels in the thrill of nonstop extravagance and unapologetic hedonism. The record’s smooth beat, laced with trap elements and melody, perfectly complements her carefree swagger. as she effortlessly glides in and out of the rhythm with precision. While Bkay’s talent is undeniable, it’s worth noting that he fails to deliver a compelling performance on this record. His verse doesn’t pack any punch, and his performance is a forgettable one. He could have been left out of the song, and no one would have batted an eyelid. That’s how unconvincing his performance is.
The Remy Baggins-produced Manyana is a vibrant and lively Afropop anthem laced with an irresistible rhythm aided by crisp snares, bouncy bass lines, catchy riffs, and airy synths. It’s a masterclass in Afropop production and a stunning record in its entirety.
The record touches on themes of self-care and mental health as Kold discusses the importance of taking a break, slowing down, healing, recharging, and unwinding. She crafts an irresistible melody and delivers a simple yet captivating hook that balances catchiness and emotional resonance. It’s the best song on this project, and I dare say the best song she has released so far. It’s such an amazing record.
She tells a story of her resilience and unwavering refusal to stay on the ground despite facing betrayal and deception on 10 Toes Down. My way follows a similar trope. She is convinced she will find her way regardless of the situation she finds herself in.
Dancehall artists are usually keen on addressing social issues with their music, and Kold AF does exactly that on the anthemic Cycle Must Break. A poignant and heartfelt call to action to humans to create a society where compassion and empathy reign supreme.
Across six tracks, Kold AF showcases her remarkable talent as well as an unwavering confidence and self-belief in her ability. She knows she is headed for the very top, and there is nothing capable of stopping her. That confidence is palpable in every song on this project.
With this project, Kold AF has placed herself in a unique position. While she may not want to be boxed because of the depth of her talent, she has the opportunity to fill a void left behind by Madrina (formerly known as Cynthia Morgan). Since Madrina exited the scene, Nigerian music is yet to see a female Dancehall superstar light the scene up the way Madrina did. If the Kaution EP proves anything, it’s that Kold AF has the talent, confidence, and charisma to fill that void. While she may not have—or may not have shown—the sensuality that Madrina had in abundance, what she has might just be enough.
That said, this project is a warning sign of something special. Kold AF has a lot more to offer, and this writer believes we are in for a treat.
Review Overview
Summary
If the 'Kaution' EP demonstrates anything, it's that Kold AF possesses the talent, confidence, and charisma to fill that gap. While she may lack—or has yet to reveal—the sensuality that Madrina (formerly Cynthia Morgan) was known for, the confidence she brings to the table could be more than enough.
- Songwriting 7
- Production6
- Sequence 5
- Enjoyability 6
- Delivery 5
