VESPER, 2023
Genre: Pop
©2023 VOODOOHOUSE (Ltd.)
Reviewed: 22 November 2023
Roho's highly anticipated return takes shape in "VESPER," like a carefully guarded secret whispered through time, the artist invites us into the heart of his creative cocoon, a space nurtured over three years after the resounding success of "Ephemeral ." This latest project promises a diverse palette of musical flavors, catering to the varied tastes of Roho's fan base. Brimming with daring vulnerability, "VESPER" offers a captivating experience shaped by intentional artistic decisions. However, as the album unfolds, the shadows of inconsistency and a potential lack of cohesion loom, raising questions about whether this venture might fall short of the excellence expected by avid Roho enthusiasts.
Roho's follow up project, VESPER is an entry into South African pop music that disappoints more than it captivates. Despite these shortcomings, there are moments on VESPER that shine. The production, while not groundbreaking, is polished and at times, sonically engaging. Roho's vocals are smooth and emotive, carrying the tracks with a certain charisma. Roho's generic songwriting struggles to establish a distinctive voice or innovate within the genre. Despite slightly surpassing average standards, Roho's production lacks uniformity, and the lyrics come across as superficial, falling short of establishing a resonant emotional or personal connection with the listeners.
In the album's opening track, "SAMAEL," Roho delves into profound symbolism by invoking the archangel of death. As a Scorpio, he intertwines his astrological identity with the thematic essence of death and rebirth associated with Scorpios. Through rhythmic chants of the name Samael in the chorus, Roho seems to beckon an internal transformation—a gradual ego dissolution. In his own words, he emphasizes the importance of initiating the project with a symbolic death, only to culminate in a later rebirth, constructing a thematic journey that mirrors the cycles of life and renewal.
In the fourth track, "POP SEX FASHION," Roho reflects on the stark contrast between Johannesburg (JHB) and his familiar home, Pretoria. With the lyric "I'm in the city to sell my soul," he communicates a profound intention to embrace vulnerability and reveal his authentic self amidst the urban landscape. The phrase takes on a metaphorical meaning, suggesting a willingness to open up and expose his true essence in a city that stands far removed from the comforts of his origins.
In "MICELLAR WATER," Roho infuses a sassy vibe, expressing resentment after being betrayed by a makeup artist. The title cleverly links to makeup removal, emphasizing the theme of shedding layers. Notably, the track stands out with a well-crafted guest verse by Tyson Sybateli, elevating it to the pinnacle of lyrical prowess on the album. Amidst the album's honesty and vulnerability, Roho refuses to sugarcoat the emotions stirred by various situations, presenting an unfiltered portrayal of his feelings.
In "GREENWAY RD," Roho collaborates with his close friend NKLY, creating a musical experience reminiscent of a casual hangout. The track exudes a fusion of funk and electro vibes, capturing the essence of a night out. It mirrors the feeling of engaging in lively conversation with a trusted friend during such gatherings. As the groove session unfolds, the song takes on a dynamic quality, and by the end, it's akin to the authentic moments that surface in candid post-event reflections, where one's most truthful self emerges.
In the final track, "REVIVAL," Roho uses the music as a metaphorical platform for the rebirth or refinement of self following the encounter with Samael in the opening track. "REVIVAL" symbolizes the essential role played by those who love and support you—they serve as grounding forces, reviving your spirit and restoring vitality. It encapsulates the idea that genuine connections with others have the power to bring about a profound renewal and restoration of life.
Despite offering a diverse range of musical experiences for Roho enthusiasts, the album falls short in terms of coherence and a compelling narrative. The themes explored, spanning passion, spiritual exploration, vices, and heartbreak, appear somewhat superficial, lacking the depth required to establish a profound connection with the audience.
With a concise duration of 30 minutes, VESPER attempts a daring and vulnerable exploration to push the boundaries of South African Pop. However, it leans excessively on trends rather than showcasing artistic originality. While there are glimpses of potential, these moments are regrettably eclipsed by the album's overall deficiency in depth and impact.
In conclusion, while VESPER might resonate with die hard Roho enthusiasts, it may not meet the expectations of those looking for a more profound and innovative pop music experience.