Show Dem Camp has long been a pillar of the Alte culture, shaping the sound and spirit of a growing movement. On the other hand, The Cavemen have successfully brought alternative sounds into the mainstream, resonating with audiences far and wide. Now, with the addition of the talented Nsikak David, these three forces have come together to craft a remarkable project titled No Love In Lagos.
This 10-track album delves into the complex stories of love in Lagos, Africa's entertainment capital. It weaves together the personal experiences of its creators and reflects the real-life struggles of young people searching for meaningful connections. The album is a treasure trove of narratives, evoking a range of emotions that will stay with listeners long after the music stops.
The journey begins with a soft, solemn instrumental, setting the stage for a pain-filled voice pleading for love. From there, it transitions into the lead single, No Love In Lagos. Tec kicks things off by sharing his insights into the challenges of finding love in the city, issuing a cautionary tale for those in search of affection. Ghost follows, offering his perspective on love and fame, making it clear that romance isn’t necessary for intimacy.
The duo then shifts focus to Johni, with The Cavemen taking on more of the creative reins. Johnny just come is a phrase familiar to Nigerians, describing someone new to an environment. The track warns listeners not to be naive, as there’s no love left in the jungle. Ghost's poetic line, “You can’t fuel your drive with the local pump price,” serves as a powerful reminder for those seeking love in a harsh world. The Cavemen’s angelic melodies intertwine seamlessly with the rap verses, reinforcing the message.
Why is a poignant tale of a young man struggling to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Steeped in highlife rhythms, the track asks why there are restrictions on his desire to live freely. Fall brings a sense of awareness and gratitude, celebrating the journey from humble beginnings to success. The track’s stellar production is highlighted by the guitarist's impeccable performance, deserving of a cold beer in appreciation.
OMFTR is a masterful blend of Afro-Pop and Highlife, with Ogbonjayar delivering a standout performance. His direct approach to addressing his critics, backed by The Cavemen’s signature ukulele vocals, leaves little room for further embellishment. Yet, Tec and Ghost still manage to leave their mark, proving that when geniuses come together, magic happens.
Moelogo adds a touch of fairytale charm to Blessings, with Tec opening the track in a prayerful mode. His thought-provoking verse is filled with prayers and declarations, while Moelogo’s soulful vocals call on divine intervention. Ghost follows suit, likening himself to the national grid as he shuts down Lagos with his powerful words. The Cavemen’s contribution, though enigmatic, feels entirely correct, adding to the song's mystical quality. The closing image of artists on fire in the studio perfectly captures the energy of the collaboration.
Train features Ruti gliding effortlessly, her vocals a delight to the ears. The first two minutes of Sudden Day transport listeners to an unknown yet beautiful place, only for Ghost to bring them back with a captivating rap delivery. The highlife duo then wrap up the project with a harmonious blend of instruments, leaving listeners in awe of the album’s cohesion and brilliance.
Final Thoughts on No Love in Lagos by Show Dem Camp and The Cavemen
No Love in Lagos is a must-listen for anyone living in Lagos, or those who simply love good music. It’s rich in melodies, heavy on lyricism, and blessed with top-tier production. This album is undoubtedly one of the standout projects of the year, showcasing the power of collaboration between two dynamic duos. The seamless blend of their talents has opened up new possibilities for future projects, and we can’t wait to see where this journey leads.
And just in case you were wondering, the guitarist who’s been stealing the show throughout the album is none other than Nsikak David. His divine touch on the strings is truly something special—he definitely deserves three cans of beer for his extraordinary work.
