Review

In what could only be described as a triumphant return to form, Nigerian superstar Davido has delivered his fifth studio album, aptly titled '5ive', cementing his position as one of Africa's most influential musical exports. The album arrives at a fascinating juncture in the global music landscape, where Afrobeats has transcended its continental origins to become a formidable presence on international charts. From the opening notes, it's abundantly clear that Davido hasn't simply rested on his laurels. '5ive' represents a carefully calibrated balance between the infectious rhythms that made him a household name and a bold exploration of new sonic territories. The production is immaculate throughout – crisp, contemporary and cleverly layered without sacrificing the raw energy that has always been his hallmark. The collaborations are particularly inspired. Rather than simply assembling a roster of trending artists, Davido has curated partnerships that genuinely elevate each track. The chemistry with his fellow musicians feels authentic, resulting in moments that are genuinely greater than the sum of their parts. Lyrically, there's a newfound maturity evident across the album. While Davido hasn't abandoned the celebratory themes that punctuated his earlier work, there's a reflective quality that lends emotional heft to proceedings. Tracks touching on personal growth, resilience and gratitude provide a compelling counterpoint to the more club-ready offerings. The album's pacing deserves special mention. The sequencing demonstrates a keen understanding of dynamics, with moments of high-octane energy balanced against more subdued, contemplative passages. This creates a listening experience that remains engaging throughout its runtime – no small feat in today's skip-heavy streaming environment. If there's any criticism to level at '5ive', it might be that certain moments feel slightly too polished, occasionally sacrificing the raw spontaneity that characterised some of his earlier breakthrough hits. However, this is a minor quibble in the context of what is otherwise a remarkably accomplished body of work. Five albums into his career, Davido has delivered a project that feels both quintessentially him and refreshingly forward-looking. It's a testament to his artistic vision that he can honour the foundations of Afrobeats while simultaneously pushing its boundaries. In '5ive', we're witnessing an artist at the peak of his powers, confidently embracing his role as both standard-bearer and innovator for African music on the global stage.