The exciting Afro-pop newcomer— Skillz 8Figure releases sophomore project with features from Oxlade, PsychoYP, Twitch 4EVA and more.
Fresh off his Tiffany Calver-stamped debut EP, Gangster Luv, Skillz 8Figure had to put things on pause because of the pandemic. It was during that time while experiencing issues in his personal relationships that his latest project After Dark was born. The EP showcases the musical versatility of Skillz 8Figure, taking influences from his Ghanaian and Sierra Leonean roots and blending them with afrobeats and highlife creating a breezy genre he describes as “coastal music”.
The romantic and rhythmic sensibilities that turned Skillz 8Figure into a rising star are still on display here with songs like Sempe showing his vulnerable side while pulling listeners to the dance floor at the same time. After Dark sees Skillz 8Figure opening up with messages of inspiration and hope, giving a look at his mindset even in the midst of quarantine. Self Love is an ode to the power of believing in yourself with a show-stealing verse from Enam. Teaming up with fellow star-in-the-making PsychoYP, Like That is a jazzy banger, with both artists flexing how far they’ve come in this game.
The cohesiveness of the project is a testament to Skillz 8Figure’s dedication to finding the right sounds. On Type of Way, he waxes poetic over a dreamy afro-fusion beat as he gives listeners the uncut him with all pretense stripped away. Songs flow into one another effortlessly and listeners are taken on an uninterrupted journey from the first note. With Julie, the intro, and Make Sense, the outro both focused on Skillz 8Figure as a lover, After Dark becomes a full circle experience that listeners will want to keep on replay.
Even though the year has just begun, Skillz 8Figure is prepared to take 2021 by storm. After Dark is his first foray into showing listeners more sides of him and he is ready to unveil even more. This EP is just a start in what looks to be a very promising year for one of Africa’s brightest rising talents. After Dark is available on all streaming platforms now!
Stream “After Dark” by Skillz 8Figure below:
