Ruyonga – “Voice of My Father” (Album Review)
Following his calling on the mic, Uganda-foreigner Ruyonga has been making a name for himself through the holy ghost and massed a large following as he embarks on his breakout moment with the release of his new 15-track album, ‘Voice of My Father’. A testimony to his father, the new project is a concept of Ruyonga reflects on the spiritual teaching bestowed upon him by his father. While he has a very deeply rooted religious background, Ruyonga found his calling in music. Finding his stride with the release of his previous single, “Glory Fire”, Ruyonga takes his act to the next level with the new album release.
Lyrically, on the album, Ruy spits fast facts, plugs into his faith while educating the streets, overall impressing the masses with some of the slickest play on words that is rare for a up-and-coming act. The catchy verses mixed with religion and streets is organic and so attractive that listeners will get lost in the message while enjoying the vibe. The vibe of the project is easy listening digestible material that is comfortable for all ears to listen to at any time.
The album is filled with support for frequent collaborators, helping carry the word is a few soulful songstress and crooners, along with fellow recording artists like Suubi and Fellie. The production on the album is blessed and revolves around Ruyonga’s speedy sound. Influenced with vintage gospel, the album also doesn’t stray to far away from the popular 808 bass that the streets enjoy. Production helps instill majority of Ruyonga’s positive message with a playful bounce and mid-tempo celebratory instrumentals.
Listen to ‘Voice of My Father’ LP below.
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While impressive penmenship, Ruyonga’s drawback is his one dimensional approach throughout the entire project. Coming off as preachy, Ruyonga’s speedy delivery fails to show range in his style. While quick and plentiful, the message can also go unheard due to the repeativeness in his vocals. Leaving the songs to merge into a one instead of a collective. With so much to say, it would be interesting to see what kind of depth can his sound deliver consistently.
Ruyonga builds a bridge of dialog that is needed in the inner-city communities worldwide. His sound delivers an impression of upliftment, tradition, upbringing that is much needed to be heard with so much going on in today’s current social atmosphere.
‘Voice of My Father’ is a glorious album. It includes every satisfactory element of Hip-Hop that enthusiast will adore while Ruyonga doesn’t weaver from his identity like most artist would to appease the masses. A style as faithful as his belief, ‘Voice of My Father’ doesn’t force feed fans with religion and keep listeners attention through the speedy wordplay filled with stylish attitude. Subliminally turning doubters into believers from beginning to end.
Rating: 9/10
Highlights: lyricism
Follow Ruyonga on Twitter: @ruyongamusic
