Alté trailblazers BOJ and Ajebutter22 return to “Time Of Our Lives,” revisiting the joint creative world that brought “Make E No Cause Fight” to life and defined the age of alternative Nigerian music.
The reunion doesn’t feel forced or nostalgic. Both artists pick up exactly where they left off; the chemistry between them runs deeper than a calculated collaboration between two names aiming to relive past success. Ajebutter22 is in fine form, dropping his signature deadpan conversational rap as he bounces between remarks on high fashion, dating today, and Nigerian pop culture with the kind of effortless humor that made him an irreplaceable figure in this scene. Then BOJ comes through with a raspy, soulful hook that floats over the instrumental with absolute ease. And the contrast between the two produces the record’s individuality without either artist having to strive at it.
The production is rooted in the alté bounce they pioneered. Mid-tempo, softly syncopated percussion loops, warm electric piano chords and a gently rolling bassline create an ambiance that immediately transports you somewhere relaxing and private, a rooftop session rather than a club. This is because “Time Of Our Lives” isn’t trying to compete with street hits or dance floor anthems. It’s on the sophisticated side of Nigerian music that doesn’t get enough credit, considering it established the groundwork for all that followed.
The text is consciously light—leisure, romance and life without undue stress. But behind the surface are pointed cultural observations that are more than they seem at first glance. It’s that layered quality that the BOJ and the Ajebutter22 creative unit have always served.
Stream “Time Of Our Lives” and let us know—does this reunion make you remember why alté will never go out of style?
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