EP Review: On ATOM, Magixx Pushes On
The Mavin Records singer embraces an afrobeats-oriented sound.
Less than a year after his 2021 eponymous debut EP, Nigerian singer Magixx dishes out his sophomore four-track effort ATOM. Earlier this year, he released the singles “Chocolate” and “Love Don’t Cost A Dime (Re-Up),” which featured fellow Mavin Records signee Ayra Starr. The latter, a move to revitalize the aforementioned track from his debut EP, worked a charm. With a refurbished beat that sampled Nelly’s Kelly Rowland-featuring “Dilemma,” Ayra Starr brought her sultry and confident energy to Magixx’s lover boy vibes, with both scoring a hit.
On ATOM, Magixx reconnects with Nigerian producer Louddaaa from his debut EP and adds Nigerian producers Reward Beats and Sarmyfire to the broth. Here is a thought as to the reason for the project: just like his label mate Crayon is doing with “Ijo (Laba Laba),” ATOM is Magixx and his record label’s method of seizing the attention garnered from their in-house hit single “Overloading (OVERDOSE).” But there’s also more to it. ATOM is also Magixx’s platform to show his versatility and afro-fusion leaning.
Compared to his debut effort, the tempo on ATOM is sped up and purely afrobeats-styled. On the lead single “Shaye,” Magixx just wants to party and have fun. He flows effortlessly on the amapiano-influenced beat as he chooses to ignore the hardships of life. “Problem plenty, yeah/Shack Hennessy, yeah/Give me the lighter, baba, make I blow some trees, yeah/Life no be snippet,” he sings.
Magixx’s lover boy aura comes alive on “All Over” as he douses his love interest with sweet affirmations. Over Reward Beats’ knocking instrumental, he embraces his strength, pairing syrupy words with deft vocal inflections and heart-melting melodies. “The way you boogie down is stupid,” he sings, recalling the needless controversy that followed him after he shared his thoughts on Chris Brown and Wizkid’s “Call Me Everyday.”
On “Weekenjoyment,” the call-and-response technique is utilized. The song carries a festive feel with the drums and whistles. Magixx makes a case for prioritizing fun over ruminating hard times and dubious politicians. Throughout the song, Magixx’s vocals embody an uncanny semblance to Wizkid.
Magixx returns to his romantic leanings on the groovy “Forever.” Louddaaa connects the pleasant guitar strings with log drums, providing Magixx with the opportunity to make long-lasting commitments to a loved one. The song will fit the playlist of many weddings, serving as a soundtrack for starry-eyed couples.
For Magixx, ATOM is another step in the right direction. The songs are great but it is likely “All Over” will stand out the most: it is where the singer is at his strongest. Despite the project’s title lacking any meaning or context, ATOM is home to an improved and still evolving Magixx.
Go HERE to stream ATOM.
Read More
EP Review: Love Takes the Lead on Dice Ailes’s Ladies First
EP Review: Ruger Gains Ground with The Second Wave
EP Review: It is Reekado Banks’ Moment on OTR Vol. 2
EP Review: Feelings Aplenty on Troniq Music & Oxlade’s Eclipse