There is a strong chance that history is about to repeat itself for Davido.
When A Better Time was released, many listeners overlooked just how good the album was. Because it was not built around experimentation or trend chasing, the project did not receive the immediate praise it deserved. Years later, many fans and critics now regard it as one of Davido’s strongest bodies of work, with some even placing it above 5ive because of its impressive collection of hit records.
Listening to Oriade, it feels like Davido has created another album that could follow the same path.
Oriade Is an Album Built on Comfort and Confidence
The title Oriade, a Yoruba word meaning “the head is crowned,” reflects an artist who is no longer trying to prove anything. Instead of chasing every new sound dominating Afrobeats, Davido embraces the style that has consistently worked for him throughout his career.
The project is filled with warm Afrobeats production, melodic songwriting, and relaxed performances. Rather than making high-energy club records that demand explosive vocal delivery, Davido settles into a comfortable rhythm that allows his melodies and personality to shine.
Throughout the album, there is a noticeable feeling of peace and maturity. You can hear an artist who understands his position in the industry and is simply enjoying making music.
Mid Tempo Production Defines the Album
One of the most striking characteristics of Oriade is its pacing.
Apart from the previously released I Know Who I Be, which carries a relatively faster tempo, most of the album leans towards mid tempo and slower Afrobeats arrangements. Songs featuring Llona and Black Sherif continue this laid back atmosphere, creating an album that is easy to listen to from beginning to end.
Instead of relying on loud production or aggressive rhythms, the album creates its identity through groove, melody, and simplicity.
Fresh VDM Helps Recreate a Familiar Magic
Another enjoyable aspect of the project is the return of producer Fresh VDM.
Fresh played an important role in shaping the sound of A Better Time, and his presence on Oriade helps recreate some of that familiar musical chemistry. The production remains clean, polished, and focused on melody without becoming repetitive.
Davido wisely avoids overcomplicating the music, allowing the production to complement his vocals rather than overpower them.
Julie Is One of the Album’s Standout Records
Among the strongest songs on the project is Julie.
The record captures everything Oriade represents. It is a contemporary mid tempo Afrobeats song that feels effortless and soothing. The melody is memorable, the chorus is easy to sing along with, and the overall mood makes it an ideal song for relaxation rather than loud celebration.
It perfectly reflects the calm personality of the album.
A More Mature Davido
One of the biggest strengths of Oriade is its restraint.
Rather than attempting to reinvent himself, Davido focuses on refining what has always made him successful. The album feels personal, comfortable, and intentionally uncomplicated. That confidence makes the listening experience more enjoyable because every song sounds like it belongs on the same project.
While listeners expecting experimental production may initially find the album too safe, those who appreciate smooth Afrobeats with strong replay value will likely enjoy it more over time.
Final Verdict
Oriade may not generate instant excitement in the way some of Davido’s previous releases did, but that could ultimately become one of its greatest strengths. It is an album created from a place of contentment, maturity, and musical confidence.
Just like A Better Time, this could become one of those projects that earns greater appreciation as the years pass. It reminds listeners that Davido does not always need to reinvent Afrobeats to make compelling music. Sometimes returning to the sound that made him one of Africa’s biggest stars is more than enough.
