Seun Kuti, the youngest son of legendary Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, released his seventh album, "Heavier Yet (Lays the Crownless Head)." This masterly project celebrates Afrobeat's enduring legacy married with modern-day zeal and revolutionary spirit.
With an altered lineup of his father's legendary Egypt 80 band, Seun imbues the music with fervent political commentary, propulsive rhythms, and an undeniable contemporary sheen. Executive produced by the rock icon Lenny Kravitz and mixed by Fela's one-time collaborator Sodi Marciszewer. Heavier Yet offers new sonic dimensions and deep Afrobeat authenticity.
The six-track album reads like a manifesto, each song thumping with urgency and intent. Opening with "TOP," a groove-heavy and inherently funny critique of materialism over soulful guitar licks, Seun establishes the groundwork for an unblinking look at modern trials. With Damian Marley on the call for unity, the reggae-inflected "Dey" and "Love & Revolution," which convert Afrobeat's muscular rhythms into a global hip-hop consciousness with Zambian rapper Sampa the Great, "Nothing Is True" layers its bravery.
A highlight is "Move," a breakneck anthem that solidifies Seun's prowess in serving danceable grooves and unflinching lyricism. Elsewhere, "Emi Aluta" redirects that ceaseless attitude of struggle, led by blaring horns and infectious call-and-response parakeets.
Rolling in at 42 minutes and 6 seconds, Heavier Yet (Lays the Crownless Head) is not an album but a movement. With his father's spirit riding him like a bronco and his revolutionary fire at his command, Seun Kuti reaffirms that Afrobeat is a living, breathing weapon in the fight for truth, justice, and freedom.