XAMINATION - My heart bleeds for this one

The Rebirth

Obiora Obiwon

Jdimusic (2009)

Is Nigerian music having a bad year? Judging from the recent MAMAs it doesn't appear so. So how come I've been listening to some not-so-hot CDs?

The Rebirth, Obiwon's much-anticipated comeback album, fits this category of lukewarm offerings. To quote the judges of both the American and West African Idol, he "sounds pitchy". A lot. Through most of the album, really.

If Obiwon's plan was to render the entire CD in a falsetto, it worked. His shrill voice could hardly carry the often indiscernible lyrics. Which is just a crying shame, really, because ‘Victorious' (track 2 featuring Niyola) has so much potential: maybe live performances backed up with a full choir would help.

WTF?

‘Na U' (track 3) is probably the least favourite track on The Rebirth. It is wholly misguided - most obvious in his decision to croon the titles of other Naija songs - ‘Story', ‘Oruka', ‘Ifunnaya'. Seriously?

All that can be said about ‘Birthday' (track 6) is that it brings to remembrance those slightly weird music videos that kids in the 1980s recorded and their parents got them airplay on NTA.

Obi Mu O

This album should be called ‘Obi Mu O' (meaning, my heart) not The Rebirth. Track 4 and its remix on track 7 serve as the reason to purchase this CD. Obiwon's vocals are strong, the lyrics are clear and it helps that upcoming singer Guchi Young has such a powerful voice (Of course, any remix with Blaise and/or MI is a good idea too).

Other good songs are track 10 - ‘The Rebirth (Kene Gi)' and ‘Bless U Lady', which is sweet, but slightly boring as far as "Mama-dedication" songs go.

GRADE - P7