When Alpha P debuted in 2019 with the critically acclaimed King of the Wolves EP, it was only fair for anyone who listened to the music to expect big things from the dreaded teenager with a maturity beyond his years. He hit the ground running as expected, scoring a sleeper hit with Paloma and a Rookie of the Year nomination at the Headies.Â
His momentum continued to soar from 2021 until 2022 as he landed massive collaborations with global superstars Justin Bieber and Wizkid, and made a standout appearance on the critically acclaimed Coming to America 2 soundtrack and appearances on multiple records. He wasn’t just tagging along on these songs, he was the star of the show, displaying his talent, range, and international appeal.
However, he still has been unable to break into superstardom despite his undeniable talent, and a defining chart-topping smash hit has eluded him, and he struggles to cultivate a devoted community that consistently rallies behind his music.Â
Fuelled by the passion to build a devoted fan base and score a career-altering hit record, he presents his highly anticipated third EP, Welcome to the Pack. For some, this project is an introduction to Alpha P and the incredible music he creates. For others, this is simply a timely reminder of what he can do and what he is about.
The project opens with Light, a soul-stirring and poignant record created to celebrate those who were there for him through life’s darkest moments. Minimalistic yet potent, the production gives off a feeling of intimacy and allows Alpha’s emotive vocals to take centre stage as he pays tribute to his loved ones. The record is a warm introduction to the project for listeners and sets the pace for what is to come.
The upbeat OMW jolts the project to life. Kemuel, who also doubles as Wondah, the producer of the record, delivers a simple and sticky hook as Alpha P melodically floats on the rhythm and delivers two searing verses over this mid-tempo Afropop beat laced with an intoxicating underlying flute melody and an exciting bounce as they are hell-bent on embarking on a journey to reach their love interest, regardless of the distance.
Alpha P then presents two simple yet irresistible requests to his love interest, first asking her to be his W before asking her to let him hold her.
The lead single, W, featuring Olamide, was produced by frequent collaborator London. On the record, he pours his heart out to his love interest. With tender vocals and catchy melodies, he whispers sweet nothings to her before beckoning on her to be his W. Hold Ya follows a similar trope.
Things don’t go as expected, as he reveals on 4 AM. His feelings are reciprocated but ultimately thwarted by circumstance because the girl has a man and wants them to simply be friends.Â
With Welcome to the Pack, Alpha P reaffirms his artistry and talent. This project showcases his captivating storytelling, brilliant techniques, and ability to craft powerful hooks. While he may not have yet reached superstardom, this EP is a testament to his potential. Welcome to the Pack may not be the definitive chart-topper, but it’s a compelling invitation to join Alpha P’s journey. As he continues to refine his craft, one thing is certain: Alpha P is a talent worthy of attention, and his pack is only just beginning to gather momentum.
Review Overview
Summary
Welcome to the Pack may not be the definitive chart-topper, but it's a compelling invitation to join Alpha P's journey.
- Songwriting5
- Production7
- Sequence5
- Enjoyability6
- Delivery7