Ghanaian artist Black Sherif has released SUN SHERIF, a six-track EP that departs from the Afro-drill sound of his first two albums and leans into more solemn, meditative territory.
Context#
The project follows The Villain I Never Was and Iron Boy, which dealt with identity, self-preservation, survivor’s guilt, isolation, self-sabotage and resilience. On SUN SHERIF, Sherif positions himself as a light in darkness, though the EP leaves open whether that stance reflects genuine happiness or a performed version of happiness.
Track overview#
The EP opens with Expresso, built on a classical guitar melody. Sherif sings, “I am the good and the evil, i stir it up,” framing himself as someone who is not fully healed but willing to work through his flaws. His rapping remains sharp, and he presents himself as a rebel redefining superstardom without toxic lifestyle choices.
Run Around moves into soulful reggae, with shuffling cymbals that mirror tension between partners trying to make a relationship work. The track shows glimpses of self-sabotage as Sherif insists he is not a bad person at his worst, a claim that appears designed to provoke a reaction.
Forever is more upbeat, driven by Afro-pop drums, and focuses on spiritual themes of destiny and scrutiny of worldly desires. Sherif’s delivery in the third verse is a notable moment on the EP.
Jolie is a blues-influenced track anchored by emotive vocal inflections in the chorus. Sherif is vulnerable and open, which might be standard for rhythm and blues (R&B) songs but for Sherif signals progress toward being a better person. Frontline returns to the trap-leaning sound of his previous albums and serves as a warning to detractors, emphasizing that he remains tough despite healthier habits. The track offers familiarity for listeners of his earlier work.
Love Again pairs a celebratory vibe with lyrics about a low mood. Sherif sounds free from his vices, even if relapses may still occur, and the track conveys joy in discarding old ways.
Overall#
SUN SHERIF marks a clear departure in Black Sherif’s discography from both a sonic and thematic standpoint. The transition is abrupt because the EP bears little resemblance to the high-octane Afro-drill soundscapes of its predecessors and is much more solemn and meditative. Only one of the six tracks pays homage to the past.
If listeners move past that barrier, the EP offers music made by an artist who has stopped running from his past and has embraced his flaws in order to work through them. The music is not necessarily inspirational or cheerful, but it is hopeful for better days and signals a transition that is not yet complete.
Scores#
- Sonic Cohesion: 1.3/2
- Expansive Production: 1.4/2
- Songwriting: 1.8/2
- Delivery: 1.9/2
- Track Sequencing: 1.4/2
