Sarz, Mavo, Thakzin, The Cavemen and More on New Music Friday

It’s a heavyweight New Music Friday, and Afrobeats is firing on all cylinders. From Sarz stepping into the spotlight with his long-awaited debut album ‘Protect Sarz At All Costs‘, to Pheelz and Fireboy rekindling their undeniable chemistry on ‘Peace By Piece‘, the week feels stacked with projects that stretch sound and storytelling. Spyro arrives with his ambitious 19-track debut ‘The Men, The Boys & Your Guy‘, The Cavemen return with a soulful new single ‘Chameleon‘ ahead of the forthcoming studio album, while South Africa’s Thakzin delivers a spiritual journey on ‘Gods Window, Pt. 1.’ Rising star Mavo fuels the streets with ‘Kilometer II’, and DJ Neptune rounds things out with the collaborative energy of ‘Greatness IV‘.

Sarz – Protect Sarz At All Costs

Nigerian super-producer Sarz has long been a cornerstone of Afrobeats, crafting hits for giants like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy while shaping the genre’s global sound. With ‘Protect Sarz At All Costs’, his debut album, Sarz steps into the spotlight as a front-facing artist, delivering a 12-track project that’s as ambitious as it is cohesive. The album’s vocal delivery is a masterclass in curation, with Sarz handpicking a star-studded lineup that bridges Afrobeats with global sounds. Featuring artists like Wizkid, Asake, Gunna, Lojay, WurlD, Fireboy DML, Joeboy, Teni, Libianca, Shallipopi, Skillibeng, Victony, Qing Madi, Odumodublvck, and more, the project feels like a global conversation. Each artist brings a distinct flavor, yet Sarz’s vision ensures cohesion. For instance, Joeboy’s honeyed vocals on “Body” glide over a minimalist, groove-heavy beat, balancing intimacy and dancefloor energy. Similarly, Victony’s soaring performance on “Up” channels resilience and hope, elevating the track into an anthem of triumph.

Qing Madi’s “In A Mustang” stands out for its dreamy, soulful delivery, with her vocals floating over airy synths, evoking a cinematic night-drive vibe. WurlD’s “Nice n’ Slow” leans into sultry R&B, with his textured voice complementing Sarz’s unhurried production, creating a mood that’s both intimate and otherworldly. The reunion with Wizkid, a longtime collaborator, is a highlight, delivering nostalgic yet fresh energy that recalls their iconic past work like “Jaiye Jaiye.” Every vocal performance feels purposeful, with Sarz’s direction ensuring that no feature overshadows the project’s core vision.

Sarz’s production on ‘Protect Sarz At All Costs’ is a testament to his reputation as a sonic architect. Known for his drum-heavy, genre-bending soundscapes, he blends Afrobeats with R&B, hip-hop, dancehall, and experimental textures, creating a project that feels both rooted in African rhythms and globally resonant. Tracks like “BMF” (featuring Fireboy DML and Byron Messia) fuse Afrobeats with dancehall grit and R&B soul, showcasing Sarz’s ability to weave contrasting styles into a cohesive sound. The previously released single “Happiness” (featuring Asake and Gunna) is a standout, with an extended, never heard before Gunna verse.

Sarz’s signature bounce is ever-present, but the album also explores new territory. “In A Mustang” uses hypnotic rhythms and futuristic synths to create a cinematic mood, while “Up” layers shimmering synths and crisp percussion for an uplifting, expansive feel. His attention to detail—think subtle basslines, floating synths, and traditional drum patterns inspired by fuji music—gives the album a rural authenticity that ties it to Afrobeats’ roots while pushing boundaries.

‘Protect Sarz At All Costs’ positions as Sarz’s legacy and his determination to protect Afrobeats’ cultural significance. The title, inspired by his strict upbringing, reflects a competitive spirit and a mission to preserve his influence in the genre. The album’s rollout was a masterstroke, with cinematic, humor-laced promo videos featuring comedian Layi Wasabi and creative skits like a mock press conference, building anticipation in a way that felt novel and engaging.

‘Protect Sarz At All Costs’ is a bold debut that lives up to the hype. Sarz’s production is meticulous, blending innovation with tradition, while the carefully selected features ensure every track feels purposeful and distinct.

Pheelz & Fireboy DML – Peace By Piece

The highly anticipated collaborative EP ‘Peace By Piece’ by Nigerian hitmaker Pheelz and Afrobeats sensation Fireboy DML has arrived on streaming platforms, under YBNL Nation and EMPIRE. The five-track project marks a significant reunion for the duo, whose previous work together shaped iconic albums like ‘Laughter, Tears & Goosebumps’ in 2019 and ‘Apollo’ 2020. With their proven chemistry, ‘Peace By Piece’ blends Pheelz’s ambidexterity as a producer and vocalist with Fireboy’s soulful vocals and introspective lyricism, with both delivering a compact yet unique addition to the Afrobeats landscape.

Fireboy DML’s vocal performance on ‘Peace By Piece’ is a masterclass in versatility, seamlessly navigating heartfelt ballads and high-energy anthems. His soulful delivery, a hallmark of his artistry, shines on tracks like “Young Again”, where his emotive storytelling captures themes of resilience and nostalgia. The lead single, “On A Kentro” featuring L.A.X, is a standout, with Pheelz’s smooth melodies paired with L.A.X’s vibrant energy, delivering catchy, street-ready vibes with spiritual undertones. Lyrics like “Dori mi mu! Ẹmi Mimọ, Ẹsẹ mi n gbọn, But I stand strong” reflect a blend of Yoruba culture and universal themes of perseverance, making the track both relatable and dancefloor-ready.

Pheelz, while primarily behind the boards, occasionally steps into the spotlight, showcasing his evolution from producer to artist. His vocal contributions add a layer of authenticity across board, particularly on “Shake”, a track from their “Evil Twin” playlist that carries over to this EP, blending playful energy with Fireboy’s charisma. The EP’s concise tracklist—five songs, including “Shake,” “ILWY,” “Young Again,” “Gozi,” and “On A Kentro” feat. L.A.X—ensures every vocal moment feels purposeful, with no filler.

The production on the EP showcases Peelz’s genre-bending prowess, fusing Afrobeats with elements of highlife, amapiano, and R&B. The EP’s sound is vibrant yet introspective, balancing infectious rhythms with emotional depth.

‘Peace By Piece’ explores finding calm amidst chaos, with tracks like “Young Again”, “Gozi” and “On A Kentro” weaving narratives of personal growth, resilience, and spiritual grounding. The EP’s title reflects this journey, with each song offering a fragment of peace through music. The rollout was expertly handled, with a cinematic black-and-white trailer, capturing candid studio moments and Pheelz’s narration about their “laughter, tears, and goosebumps” chemistry.

Spyro – The Men, The Boys & Your Guy

Nigerian Afrobeats star Spyro, has effortlesly cemented his place in the scene with hits like “Who Is Your Guy?” and “For You” His debut album, ‘The Men, The Boys & Your Guy’, released on September 26, 2025, under Cinq Music Group, is a 19-track behemoth that showcases his versatility, ambition, and knack for bridging generations. Structured in three thematic sections—“The Men,” “The Boys,” and “Your Guy”—the album is a bold statement of Spyro’s journey from a breakout artist to a defining voice in Afrobeats.

Spyro’s vocal delivery on ‘The Men, The Boys & Your Guy’ is a blend of smooth, emotive melodies with streetwise charisma. He shifts from introspective to celebratory tones across the album’s three acts. In “The Men” section, Spyro pays homage to Nigerian music veterans, delivering heartfelt performances alongside icons like M.I Abaga on “Para”, 2Baba on “If To Say”, D’Banj on “Wait”, and Faze on “Can’t Lie”. These tracks carry a nostalgic weight, with Spyro’s soulful vocals complementing the veterans’ seasoned styles. For instance, “Can’t Lie” sees Spyro and Faze harmonizing over themes of love and vulnerability, creating a timeless vibe that resonates with longtime Afrobeats fans.

“The Boys” section spotlights newer talents like Bayanni, Shoday, Oxlade, Suave, Soundz, Jeriq, and Ceeboi. Tracks like “No More” with Bayanni showcase Spyro’s emotive side, tackling heartbreak and closure with a tender yet commanding delivery. His chemistry with Shoday on “Sweet” is infectious, blending playful energy with catchy hooks that feel tailor-made for radio and playlists. The “Your Guy” segment is Spyro’s personal spotlight, with solo tracks like “Dance,” “Pray,” and “Serving a Living God” showcasing his introspective and spiritual side. The gospel-infused “Serving a Living God” is a highlight, with Spyro’s passionate delivery elevating its message of faith and resilience. The sole feature in this section, Pitch6lack on “Away,” adds a soulful edge, but Spyro’s solo moments steal the show, proving his star power.

The production on ‘The Men, The Boys & Your Guy’ is a vibrant tapestry of Afrobeats, trap, gospel, and R&B, showcasing Spyro’s knack for polished yet dynamic soundscapes. Tracks like “Para” with M.I Abaga lean into trap-influenced beats, with hard-hitting drums and melodic synths that amplify M.I.’s razor-sharp lyricism and Spyro’s energetic flow. “Shutdown” with Phyno is another banger, blending Afrobeats with street-ready trap elements, its punchy production making it a club and playlist favorite. The nostalgic “Can’t Lie” with Faze uses subtle percussion and melodic instrumentation to evoke early 2000s Afrobeats while keeping a modern edge.

Spyro’s gospel roots shine in “Serving a Living God,” where smooth synths and melodic harmonies create a worshipful atmosphere that feels both contemporary and reverent. “Shope” is a quintessential Afrobeats anthem, with infectious percussion, lush guitar riffs, and dynamic arrangements that scream celebration. The production across the album is precise, with each track tailored to its featured artist or theme, ensuring variety without losing cohesion. Spyro’s ability to fuse traditional African rhythms with global influences makes the album accessible to both local and international audiences, positioning it as a potential crossover hit.

‘The Men, The Boys & Your Guy’ is a journey of legacy, identity, and growth, cleverly echoing Spyro’s breakout hit “Who Is Your Guy?” The album’s tripartite structure—“The Men” (honoring veterans), “The Boys” (celebrating new talent), and “Your Guy” (Spyro’s personal narrative)—creates a narrative arc that feels like a musical rite of passage. The cinematic 52-second trailer, featuring a young boy watching TV and a voiceover narrating Spyro’s evolution “from a boy chasing melodies to a bridge between legends and the future,” sets the tone beautifully. The album art, with Spyro in a bold red suit amid a monochrome grid of men, visually captures his standout presence in Afrobeats.

The Cavemen – Chameleon

Nigerian highlife duo The Cavemen, consisting of brothers Kingsley Okorie (bass) and Benjamin James (drums), have been torchbearers of modern highlife since their 2020 debut ‘Roots’. Their latest single, ‘Chameleon’, arrives as a lead single ahead of their forthcoming studio album and continues their mission to blend classic highlife rhythms with contemporary flair. Known for their soulful melodies and live-performance prowess, The Cavemen deliver a track that’s both a nod to their roots and a step into fresh sonic territory.

The Cavemen’s vocal and instrumental delivery on ‘Chameleon’ is a masterclass in understated elegance. Benjamin James’ lead vocals are warm and emotive, carrying the weight of the song’s heartbreak theme. The lyrics, which liken his subject to a chameleon’s ability to change colors, are delivered with a conversational sincerity that feels deeply authentic. ‘Chameleon’ balances philosophical introspection with accessible storytelling, blended with Kingsley’s backing harmonies that add depth and a rich, layered vocal texture.

The duo’s instrumental interplay is equally compelling. Kingsley’s basslines are smooth yet commanding, anchoring the track with a groove that feels both nostalgic and modern. Benjamin’s drumming is precise, weaving traditional highlife rhythms with subtle contemporary flourishes, ensuring the track remains dynamic without overpowering its soulful core. The delivery is intimate yet universally relatable, making ‘Chameleon’ a song that invites both reflection and movement.

The production on ‘Chameleon’ showcases The Cavemen’s ability to fuse vintage highlife with modern sensibilities. The track is built on warm percussion, intricate guitar work, and smooth harmonies, creating a sound that’s organic and timeless, as the lyrics tell a story of deceit, and the feeling of bitter betrayal that comes after.

A precursor to their forthcoming album, ‘Chameleon’ is a captivating lead single that reinforces The Cavemen’s status as highlife innovators. Its soulful delivery, meticulous production, and moving theme positions it as a standount in their discography. While it’s a single rather than a full album, its depth and replayability places it as an approapriate release to a larger project.

Thakzin – Gods Window, Pt. 1

South African producer and DJ Thakzin, a pioneer of the 3-Step genre, has released his highly anticipated debut album ‘Gods Window, Pt. 1’ via Platoon. This 18-track project, featuring a range of collaborators is a spiritual and cultural journey that blends traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds like amapiano, gqom, and Afro-house.

Thakzin’s ‘Gods Window, Pt. 1’ is a collaborative triumph, with Xolani Guitars’ contribution on “When We Play” standing out as a highlight. The track features Xolani’s traditional string work, which adds a jazzy, soulful texture to Thakzin’s 3-Step framework.

Across the album, Thakzin’s vocal presence is understated but impactful, often serving as a guiding thread rather than the focal point. Tracks like “Makukhanye (The Way In)” with Thandazo and “The Calling” with Thandazo and Tete showcase soulful, emotive deliveries that balance modern R&B with native vocal styles. The collaborative approach—featuring artists like Sun-EL Musician, Miči, Mzizi, and Baby S.O.N—ensures a diverse vocal palette, with each artist bringing authenticity to the project’s spiritual and cultural themes.

Thakzin’s production on ‘Gods Window, Pt. 1’ is a masterclass in genre fusion, with multiple tracks exemplifying his 3-Step philosophy—a rhythmic approach that drops a kick from the traditional house pattern for a distinctive tension-and-release feel. The production is hi-fidelity, with crisp drums, pillowy synths, and layered textures that evoke a healing, spiritual energy.

The album as a whole is a sonic journey, divided into three thematic sections—past, present, and future—reflecting Thakzin’s vision of continuity between ancestry and modernity. Tracks like “Imali Yephepha” (featuring Suffocate SA, Citizen Deep, Divine Keys, and Baby S.O.N) and “Love & Pride” (with Sun-EL Musician and Miči) showcase his ability to merge amapiano’s crunching energy, gqom’s guttural drums, and Afro-house’s soulful harmonies. “Botho Begins With Her” with Mankabosane Cultural Group leans into tribal dub, while “Utlwa” with Mörda and Xelimpilo explores atmospheric, melody-driven soundscapes. The production is cohesive yet varied, designed as a “no-skip” experience that feels like a layered cultural narrative.

‘Gods Window, Pt. 1’ is a spiritual odyssey, drawing from Thakzin’s upbringing in Johannesburg’s Ivory Park, where Sangoma drumming rituals shaped his belief in music’s healing power. The album’s title, inspired by the scenic South African landmark, symbolizes a window into cultural and personal evolution.

The strategic rollout saw singles like “Imali Yephepha” and “Love & Pride” that built anticipation, alongside a Spotify documentary, ‘RADAR Presents Thakzin’, spotlighting his 3-Step innovation. The album’s release coincides with Thakzin’s upcoming performance at the ACCES 2025 music conference in Tshwane

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‘Gods Window, Pt. 1’ is a stunning debut that cements Thakzin as a visionary in South African electronic music. Thakzin’s 3-Step production, paired with a stellar cast of collaborators, creates a cohesive, spiritually resonant project that’s both a dancefloor catalyst and a cultural statement. While its 18 tracks demand commitment, the album’s layered storytelling and sonic diversity make it a rewarding listen.

Mavo – Kilometer II

Fast-rising Nigerian artist Mavo, signed to Kilogbede Records, has dropped his highly anticipated sophomore EP, ‘Kilometer II’, on September 26, 2025, via Inner Circle Entertainment. Building on the success of his 2023 debut ‘Ukanigbe’ and 2024’s ‘Sanko’ and ‘Kilometer’, this seven-track project solidifies Mavo’s place in the Afrobeats and Afro-trap scene. Featuring heavyweights like Ayra Starr, Zlatan, Shallipopi, Kashcoming, Famous Pluto, and WAVE$TAR, ‘Kilometer II’ is a vibrant blend of street-hop, Afrobeats, and highlife influences.

Mavo’s vocal delivery on ‘Kilometer II’ is confident and charismatic, showcasing his signature blend of gravelly vocals, streetwise swagger, and melodic finesse. Tracks like “Shakabulizzy” are infectious anthems, with Mavo’s playful yet assertive flow capturing themes of attraction and hustle. His delivery on “Escaladizzy II” (feat. Zlatan and Ayra Starr) is a standout, blending his pidgin-laced rhymes with Ayra’s soulful melodies and Zlatan’s energetic ad-libs, creating a dynamic, club-ready vibe. “Too Busy” (feat. Kashcoming) sees Mavo leaning into a reflective tone, addressing ambition and distractions with a conversational delivery that feels authentic.

The features elevate the EP without overshadowing Mavo’s presence. Ayra Starr’s ethereal vocals on “Escaladizzy II” add emotional depth, while Shallipopi’s street edge complements Mavo’s raw energy. “Kilogram” (feat. Famous Pluto) highlights Mavo’s ability to hold his own alongside rising stars, with his gritty storytelling shining through. Each track feels like a chapter in Mavo’s journey, with his versatile delivery tying together tales of campus hustle, heartbreak, and street credibility. His knack for “lamba” (Afrobeats slang) adds a fresh, youthful energy that resonates with Gen Z listeners.

The production on ‘Kilometer II’ is a vibrant fusion of Afrobeats, street-hop, and highlife, with producers like Dibs, 2Frosh, Wana Sn, and Aibrid crafting a sound that’s both gritty and polished. “Shakabulizzy,” produced by Dibs, is a club banger with energetic log drum grooves and lush guitar riffs, designed to dominate dancefloors. “Escaladizzy” (feat. WAVE$TAR), produced by 2Frosh, blends legwork-inspired beats with melodic hooks, showcasing Mavo’s experimental side. “Kilogram,” produced by Wana Sn, leans into street-hop with punchy drums and atmospheric synths, amplifying its raw energy.

The EP’s sonic palette is concise yet diverse, clocking in at just 9 minutes across seven tracks, ensuring every moment hits hard. “Shooting Star,” produced by Aibrid, opens the project with a reflective, melody-driven vibe, setting the tone for Mavo’s narrative of growth. The production ties into Mavo’s “Afro-trap” style, blending trap’s hard-hitting drums with Afrobeats’ infectious rhythms, as seen in “Ilashizzy.” The EP’s brevity works in its favor, delivering a no-filler experience that keeps listeners engaged.

‘Kilometer II’ is a journey of ambition, resilience, and self-expression, building on Mavo’s narrative from ‘Kilometer’ and ‘Ukanigbe’. The EP reflects his hustle, from street life to personal triumphs, with tracks like “Eko Towers” and “Ilashizzy” grounding the project in Nigerian urban culture. While the EP’s short runtime might leave some wanting more, its tight structure and high-energy tracks make it a potent addition to Mavo’s catalog.

DJ Neptune – Greatness IV

Nigerian disc jockey and producer DJ Neptune, a titan in Afrobeats, has unleashed his highly anticipated album, ‘Greatness IV’. Following the success of ‘Greatness III’ in 2024, this 14-track project elevates his legacy as a cultural curator, blending Afrobeats with diverse global sounds. Featuring a star-studded lineup including Kojo Black, Swayvee, Moelogo, Rybeena, Guchi, Berri Tiga, Timi Martins, Shon, Hotkeed, Reeha, Kabusa Choir, Lazarus, Dera, Lyrxx, Kimimoteleba, Gbolar Mighty, and Portable, ‘Greatness IV’ is a vibrant celebration of African diverse talents.

DJ Neptune’s ‘Greatness IV’ is a masterclass in collaborative synergy, with each artist bringing distinct energy to the project. Tracks like “Jeje Laye” (feat. Portable) burst with raw, streetwise charisma, with Portable’s unfiltered energy delivering an anthem that pulses with Lagos’ grit. “My Girl” (feat. Berri Tiga) showcases a smoother, romantic side, with Berri Tiga’s heartfelt vocals and catchy hooks like “I no get no other baby, only you in my head” creating an instant earworm.

Moelogo’s soulful verse on “Come With Me” adds emotional depth, blending R&B finesse with Afrobeats’ bounce, while “Taliban” (feat. Kojo Black) sees Kojo’s bold delivery channeling street pride with lines like “I be bado, call me Rambo, emi Dragon.” Lyrxx’s playful yet confident flow on “No Kiss And Tell” complements Neptune’s vision of lighthearted, flirty vibes, with lyrics like “I know you got another man, you just needed a passerby wey no go kiss and tell.” The Kabusa Choir’s harmonies on “Amin” bring a spiritual, Yoruba-inspired uplift, grounding the album in cultural authenticity. Every artist’s contribution feels purposeful, creating a cohesive yet adventurous sonic journey.

The production on ‘Greatness IV’, helmed by Timbun, Ugly & Though, NYRP, and DJ Neptune himself, is a dynamic blend of Afrobeats, Afro-fusion, and global influences like R&B and street-hop. Tracks like “Dance No Dance” (feat. Swayvee) are electrifying, with infectious percussion and lush guitar riffs that fuse Afrobeat’s rhythm with a contemporary edge, making it a dancefloor staple. “Katampe” (feat. Rybeena) leans into crisp, log-drum-heavy beats, while “Good Mood Good Vibe” (feat. Kikimoteleba) uses vibrant synths and punchy drums to create an uplifting, party-ready atmosphere.

The album’s soundscapes are meticulously crafted, balancing high-energy anthems with introspective moments. “Amin” (feat. Reeha and Kabusa Choir) incorporates Yoruba spirituality with melodic harmonies, while “Street” (feat. Gbolar Mighty) delivers raw, unfiltered energy with gritty production that mirrors Lagos’ hustle. The production is hi-fidelity yet rooted in African rhythms, with each track designed to resonate across moods—from turn-up bangers like “Never Settle For Less” (feat. Hotkeed) to reflective cuts like “Money I Get” (feat. LAZ and Dera). Neptune’s ability to weave diverse sounds into a cohesive narrative cements his role as a sonic architect.

‘Greatness IV’ is a celebration of African identity, resilience, and creativity, with tracks reflecting daily struggles, aspirations, and joy. The album’s 14 tracks are structured for broad appeal, with no filler, though its dense roster of features might overwhelm some listeners.