David Crone, writer.

The Context: For years, British-Ghanaian producer Juls has been instrumental in pioneering the sound of Afrobeats, a downtempo, dance-focused genre forged at the crossroads between Nigeria, Ghana, and the UK.

And in 2021, he is ready to make a statement piece of his own – Juls’ debut album, Sounds of My World, is a vibe-centric success. Embodying the barebones approach to the genre he’s become known for, Juls’ productions here are meticulously-crafted summer soundscapes, littered with earthy drums and drifting melodies. With a colossal range of collaborators including WizKid, Bas, Agent Sasco (Assassin) and Knucks, the album sees Juls expose the entire spectrum of the genre: from the downtempo UK rap influence of “Wicked” to the warm, sashaying melodies of “Summer in the Ends.” For fans of Afrobeats, or simply those looking to unwind to some sun-touched vibes, this is an unmissable work.

Read my full review of the album at AllMusic via the button below:

Rating: 4/5

Top 3: “Summer in the Ends,” “My Size,” “Wicked”

Genres: Afrobeats, UK Rap, Dance

Features: WizKid, Agent Sasco (Assassin), JAEL, Jaz Karis, George the Poet, Haile, Niniola, King Promise, DarkoVibes, Joey B, Fireboy DML, Bas, Mannywellz, Knucks, Prettyboy D-O, Suspect OTB, Sauti Sol, Mayra Andrade, A2, Kadiata, Sam Wise, Karun, Xenia Manasseh, Oxlade, Kojo Funds, Tay Iwar, Projexx.