Album Review: Tems – Born in the Wild

Tems’ debut album, Born in the Wild, released in June 2024, is a bold and introspective exploration of her artistry. The 18-track project fuses Afrobeats, R&B, and soul, creating a sound that feels both modern and timeless. Tems’ signature emotive voice carries listeners through personal narratives of resilience, love, and self-discovery.

Standout tracks like “Me & U” and “Unfortunate” highlight her lyrical honesty, while collaborations with J. Cole and Asake add texture and dynamic energy. Throughout the album, Tems demonstrates a remarkable ability to balance vulnerability with strength, crafting songs that resonate on a deeply emotional level.

Born in the Wild solidifies Tems as a genre-defying voice in global music, an artist unafraid to push boundaries while staying authentically herself. The album is both a statement and a journey, an invitation to experience her world through sound and soul.

Critical Acclaim and Reception

Critics have lauded the album for its cohesive sound and emotional depth. Pitchfork awarded it a 7.8, noting its adventurous and melancholic tone, while Rolling Stone described it as “a searing spiritual for a tortured generation.” The album’s fusion of African musical traditions with contemporary influences has been highlighted as a testament to Tems’ versatility and artistic maturity.

Track-by-Track Highlights

1. Born in the Wild
    The album opens with the acoustic-driven title track, setting a tone of raw vulnerability. Tems’ voice, rich and emotive, guides listeners through a tapestry of genres, blending elements of Afrobeats, R&B, and soul. Collaborations with artists like J. Cole and Asake add depth, yet it’s Tems’ solo tracks that truly shine, reflecting her personal journey and artistic vision.
2. Special Baby (Interlude)
    A brief yet poignant interlude, featuring heartfelt messages from her mother and managers, offering a candid glimpse into her support system and the challenges faced behind the scenes.
3. Burning
    Dreamily reminiscent of her introduction to the scene, “Burning” delves deeper into both external and self-inflicted pressures, set alight by an unbridled desire to succeed. The track acts as a mirror to her emotions and state of mind, aptly reflected in our 2020 cover story for The NATIVE’s Print Issue 4 where writer, Damilola Animashaun, described her as one who has “unlocked society’s cage and set herself on fire to light the way for a new vanguard.”
   
4. Wickedest
    An energetic track that showcases Tems’ versatility, blending Afrobeats rhythms with contemporary R&B elements. The song’s infectious beat and catchy lyrics make it a standout on the album.
5. Love Me JeJe
    A reimagined version of Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 hit, this track brings a nostalgic feel while infusing Tems’ unique style. The breezy melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a memorable piece on the album.
6. Get It Right (feat. Asake)
    A fusion of Afrobeats and amapiano, this collaboration with Asake brings a fresh energy to the album. The track’s rhythmic beats and dynamic vocals create an engaging listening experience.
7. Ready
    A soulful ballad that highlights Tems’ vocal prowess, “Ready” delves into themes of love and commitment. The song’s emotive delivery and poignant lyrics resonate deeply with listeners.
8. Gangsta
    An upbeat track that combines elements of reggae and R&B, “Gangsta” showcases Tems’ ability to blend genres seamlessly. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus make it a standout.
9. Unfortunate
    A reflective piece that delves into themes of heartbreak and resilience, “Unfortunate” showcases Tems’ lyrical depth and emotional range. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics leave a lasting impact.
10. Boy O Boy
     An introspective track that explores themes of self-discovery and personal growth, “Boy O Boy” highlights Tems’ songwriting abilities. The song’s mellow vibe and thoughtful lyrics make it a compelling listen.
11. Forever
     A romantic ballad that speaks to the enduring nature of love, “Forever” showcases Tems’ vocal versatility. The song’s lush instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics create an immersive listening experience.
12. Free Fall (feat. J. Cole)
     A collaboration that blends R&B and hip-hop, “Free Fall” features introspective verses from J. Cole and Tems’ soulful vocals. The track’s smooth production and reflective lyrics make it a standout.
13. Voice in My Head (Interlude)
     Another interlude that offers a glimpse into Tems’ inner thoughts and struggles, providing context to the themes explored in the album.
14. Turn Me Up
     An energetic track that encourages listeners to embrace their power and confidence, “Turn Me Up” delivers an empowering message. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious chorus make it a crowd favorite.
15. Me & U
     A soulful track that delves into themes of love and connection, “Me & U” showcases Tems’ vocal range and emotional depth. The song’s smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics resonate with listeners.
16. T-Unit
     An experimental track that blends electronic and R&B elements, “T-Unit” highlights Tems’ willingness to push musical boundaries. The song’s innovative production and unique sound make it a standout.
17. You in My Face
     A track that explores themes of intimacy and desire, “You in My Face” showcases Tems’ ability to convey emotion through her music. The song’s sultry vibe and captivating lyrics make it a compelling listen.
18. Hold On
     The album closes with “Hold On,” a powerful ballad that speaks to perseverance and hope. Tems’ emotive vocals and the song’s uplifting message provide a poignant end to the album.

Final Thoughts

Born in the Wild is more than just an album; it’s a narrative of Tems’ evolution as an artist and individual. With its rich soundscapes and introspective lyrics, it solidifies her place in the global music scene, offering a compelling glimpse into the soul of an artist who continues to redefine boundaries.