Last year, Blaqbonez made a grand statement with his debut album, Bad Boy Blaq — an accomplished body of work that announced him as one to watch. Since then, his star has risen considerably, and on his latest project, Mr. Boombastic, he proves that so has his resolve.

Like on the EP’s lone single, “Shut Up”, haters get called out a lot. Sometimes Blaqbonez is intent on ignoring them and focusing on his growth (“Run My Race”); other times, he’s issuing out warnings, basically daring them to try him (“Come For You”).

Thankfully, the project isn’t all about his enemies: We also get a few love songs that feel true to his established persona. On “God When”, he’s proud of how his relationship tensions others; and on “Magic”, he compares his feelings for his woman with his feelings for money.

As for featured acts, he enlists Falz and Blackmagic for “Boombastic” and “Magic” respectively. On the former, a radio-friendly banger, Blaqbonez and Falz call for ladies to whine their waist; while the latter, a catchy love song, finds the elusive Blackmagic in superb form.

Speaking about the EP, Blaqbonez said:

“For those who’ve followed me over the years, they’ve been witness to a constant evolution of my sound, and I just shed my skin yet again.”

Every track on the project is expertly executed, showcasing Blaqbonez’s skills as a writer and a performer. Will this convince people that he deserves the self-appointed title of ‘Best Rapper in Africa’? Probably not. But he’s certainly earned himself a place in the conversation.

Listen to Mr Boombastic: