Chapter X Explained

Chapter X
Type:compilation
Artist:Mavins
Cover:Mavins - Chapter X.png
Released:2 December 2022
Genre:Afrobeats
Length:36:00
Label:Mavin
Producer:
Prev Title:Solar Plexus
Prev Year:2012

Chapter X is the second compilation album by the label collective Mavins. It was released on 2 December 2022, by the label, and features the label's artists, Don Jazzy, Rema, Ayra Starr, Crayon, Ladipoe, Magixx, Boy Spyce, Bayanni, Johnny Drille and DJ Big N. The album was produced by Sevn, Jvxn, Andre Vibez, Johnny Drille, Don Jazzy and Prestige.[1] The album was preceded by two singles, "Overloading", and "Won Da Mo", and received positive reception from critics.

Background

The label revealed the tracklist for the album on 30 November 2022 via social media.[2]

Singles

The album housed two singles. The lead single "Overloading" was released on 13 May 2022, is performed by Crayon, Ayra Starr, Ladipoe, Magixx and Boy Spyce, and was produced by Don Jazzy. The music video was declared the most trending Nigerian YouTube video of 2022 by Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Google's Communications Manager in West Africa.[3] The second single "Won Da Mo" was released on 9 November 2022 and is performed by Rema, Ladipoe, Crayon, Bayanni, Boy Spyce, Magixx, Ayra Starr and Johnny Drille. The song was produced by Andre Vibez. The song was meant to be released on the 4th of November, but was postponed due to events happening at that time, which was declared in a post by the label: "Mavin All Stars' Won Da Mo release date has now been moved to Wednesday 9th, November. The road still leads to the dynasty!!!".[4]

Critical reception

The album was generally favored by critics. The Native magazine's team praised Chapter X, highlighting its strong showcase of Mavin Records' talent. Emmanuel called it "a virtuosic skill" with "excellent replay value", while Wonu said the album "solidified the empire Mavin Records is building." Andre Vibez's production on "Amina" and "Won Da Mo" was particularly noted, with Uzoma describing the production as "solid." Overall, they view Chapter X as a well-crafted, high-energy project that exemplifies Mavin's lasting influence in Afrobeats.[5] Bomi Anifowose of The Upper Entertainment praised Chapter X as a testament to the label's commitment to quality sound and a fitting celebration of their ten-year anniversary. He highlights the impressive lineup of artists like Rema, Johnny Drille, Ayra Starr, Ladipoe, and others, noting that expectations were high for the album. Anifowose described the project as "a hippy album, a giddy feel collection" that showcases the label's songwriting and musicianship, particularly in tracks like "Alle," "Amina," and "Ogini Na Fio." He saw Chapter X as a "proper thank you gift" to fans, urging them to "go listen and enjoy".[6] Yinoluwa Olowofoyeku of Afrocritik praised Chapter X for its ability to highlight the diverse talents of the Mavin All-Stars, stating that while the album "avoids the pitfall of sounding too samey", it could benefit from greater variation. He noted that Rema and Ayra Starr shine as the flag bearers of this generation, but other artists like Magixx and Boy Spyce also show promise. However, Olowofoyeku felt that "Ladipoe was a bit overused", which slightly undermined his impact on the album.[7]

Track listing

Notes

Personnel

Release history

Region! scope="col"
DateFormatLabel
Various2 December 2022Mavin

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Okhide, Peter. Rema, Ayra Starr, Johnny Drille, Crayon & Other Mavins Join Forces on 'Chapter X' Album: Listen. NotJustOk. 3 September 2024. 2 December 2022.
  2. Web site: Mavin Records reveals album tracklist for 'Chapter X'. YNaija. 1 December 2022. 3 September 2024.
  3. Web site: Olayemi, Taiye. Mavin Records' "Overloading" most trending 2022 YouTube music video. P.M. News. 3 September 2024. 1 December 2022.
  4. Web site: Mudasiru, Wisdom. Mavins Release All-Star Track "Won Da Mo" Off Upcoming "Mavin At 10" Album. Culture Custodian. 3 September 2024. 9 November 2022.
  5. Web site: Animashaun, Damilola. Our First Impressions of Mavin Records' Chapter X. The Native. 3 September 2024. 2 December 2022.
  6. Web site: Anifowose, Bomi. Album Review: Mavin's 'Chapter X'. The Upper Entertainment. 3 September 2024. 4 December 2022.
  7. Web site: Olowofoyeku, Yinoluwa. Mavin Records' "Chapter X" is a Showcase of the Current Mavin Class. Afrocritik. 3 September 2024. 30 December 2022.