We Speak Music
UA.X’s Debut Album ‘Love & Hustle’ is a Lush Fusion of Afrobeats and R&B
Nigerian-born multi-hyphenate creative Seyi Akinlade, widely known as UA.X, steps from behind the camera to claim the spotlight with his debut album Love & Hustle. Best known for his work as a photographer and music video director for acclaimed artists like Tems, Rema, and Lojay, UA.X now channels his creative vision into a nine-track project that blends the warmth of Afrobeats with the emotional pull of R&B. The result is an intimate and dynamic reflection on love and perseverance, wrapped in a sonic signature that is distinctly his own.
Clocking in at just 21 minutes, Love & Hustle wastes no time immersing listeners in its heartfelt exploration of romance and ambition. UA.X strikes a careful balance between the highs and lows of these themes, with much of the album focusing on love’s multifaceted nature—its beauty, its complexity, and its inevitable discomforts. Tracks like “Money & Love” stand out for their emotive vocal delivery, allowing UA.X to showcase his tender, yet powerful voice against atmospheric production.
Production duties were handled by a mix of top-tier talent including TMXO, Nonso Amadi, and Chillz, ensuring a cohesive and immersive sonic experience. The album’s instrumental palette is rich with tonal warmth—layered rhythms, sultry melodies, and reflective beats that weave seamlessly together. Afrobeats grooves provide the backbone, while the unhurried tempo and spacious R&B melodies invite listeners to soak in each moment. This unhurried pace is where UA.X shines; he allows his music to breathe, creating a cinematic, immersive soundscape that feels expansive yet deeply personal.
Love & Hustle isn’t just a musical project for UA.X, it’s a full-circle moment where his visual storytelling experience meets his sonic craftsmanship. His ability to craft worlds visually in the past translates effortlessly into his music, making each song feel like a scene in a movie—stories of passion, hustle, and self-reflection unravel as he weaves his personal narrative through both lyrics and sound.
With Love & Hustle, UA.X announces himself as an artist to watch. His transition from visual director to musician feels seamless, proving not only his versatility but his dedication to creating art in all its forms. This debut album is a bold statement of intent—both intimate and expansive in its sound, and undeniably memorable. As UA.X continues to carve out his space in the music world, Love & Hustle stands as a testament to his ability to blend passion with perseverance, and art with hustle.
Dmillyyy kicked off the month of love with the lead single, “Balance.” “Balance” was Dmillyyy’s first song of the year. The record served as a teaser for his new EP, Cupid Pack, which was released on Valentine’s Day. Cupid Pack is a five-track EP that dives into the intricacies of love. The EP is an eclectic body of work as it utilizes various genres of music, such as Alternative R&B, Melodic Rap, and Reggaeton.
Cupid Pack starts off with the song, “Thunderstruck.” The track is a record that features a wavy beat and Dmillyyy’s smooth flow. The sound is reminiscent of Jaden. The next track, “Balance,” is a fan favorite and for good reason. “Balance” has a bouncy beat that makes listeners want to groove. The record has a Drake feel to it. The catchy hook reels you in immediately. Dmillyyy cleverly sprinkles in some Spanish lyrics, which are a prelude to the third track on the EP. “Q.M. Interludio” follows “Balance.” The Latin Music interlude showcases the versatility that Dmillyyy possesses. The penultimate track, “WYGD,” is a downtempo, love song that is enchanting. The tune has a sample that blends well with the theme of the song. “WYGD” sets up the EP’s closer as “Madness” is another slow jam. “Madness” is the perfect finale. The sensual track embodies passion and love.
The EP’s introspective/extrospective take on love provides all listeners with songs that resonate with them. Although each song has its own flavor and unique sound, they still connect and carry a cohesive message. “Cupid Pack is an image painted to describe different emotions that may arise for particular love interests.” Dmillyyy continues: “Sometimes it isn’t that serious and just the feeling that you want to cherish. Sometimes the other’s existence makes you want to question everything and reflect back on your own life. Either way, both parties are living in the moment and letting that lead the way.” Cupid Pack is only the beginning as Dmillyyy has much in store for the year. While waiting for his next masterpiece, be sure to show love to the immaculate EP that is Cupid Pack.
Follow Dmillyyy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmxllyyy.
This review was made possible by SubmitHub.
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