Pa Salieu has made a triumphant return with Afrikan Alien, his latest mixtape that not only cements his place as a boundary-pushing artist but also as a voice of resilience and reflection.
Comprising 11 tracks, this lean but powerful project continues Salieu’s artistic evolution, blending elements of Afrobeats, UK rap, R&B, and experimental jazz. Emerging from 2 ½ years of incarceration, Salieu describes Afrikan Alien as a product of intense self-discovery and growth.
“I refuse to be broken down,” he explains. “Acceptance of my situation led to my personal growth... There’s going to be plenty of bad times in our lives. We just need to stay prepared and know that there’ll be better times ahead.”
This sentiment echoes through every song, turning the mixtape into a manifesto of hope and resilience. Afrikan Alien opens with the soul-stirring “Afrikan Di Alien,” where Salieu reflects on the ongoing struggles of the diaspora through poignant keys and introspective storytelling. The mixtape continues to explore diverse musical landscapes, from the vibrant, classic Afrobeats rhythm of “Allergy” to the electrifying “Dece (Heavy),” where Salieu raps in his mother tongue for the first time, adding authenticity and cultural depth.
The tracklist also includes standout singles like “Belly” and “Round & Round,” which weave futuristic jazz and African-inspired guitar melodies.
Salieu’s collaborators bring their unique artistry to Afrikan Alien, enriching its narrative. Nigerian rapper ODUMODUBLVCK, Ghanaian star Black Sherif, and Jamaican dancehall artist Byron Messia each add their voices to this global tapestry, creating an album that embodies the strength, resilience, and community of the diaspora.
The mixtape culminates with “YGF – Young, Great and Free,” a triumphant anthem celebrating Pa Salieu’s hard-won freedom. It’s a moment of catharsis, closing the album on a hopeful note that mirrors his journey from imprisonment to liberation.
With Afrikan Alien, Pa Salieu delivers not just a mixtape but a profound statement on identity, struggle, and triumph. His ability to merge personal stories with innovative soundscapes makes this project a standout in his discography and a testament to his enduring impact on modern music.
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