BNXN’s ‘Captain’ draws mixed reactions over lack of range despite standout singles
Afrobeats singer and songwriter BNXN has released his sophomore album Captain, but while the 16-track project showcases his signature penmanship and vocal finesse, critics and listeners are expressing concern over its repetitive style and lack of artistic growth.
Following the success of his debut album Sincerely, BNXN, expectations were high for Captain, especially after BNXN stirred attention with his public spat with the 30BG crew and released strong lead singles like ‘Phenomena’, ‘Very Soon’ featuring FOLA, and ‘Fi Kan We Kan’ with Rema.
Despite those highlights, many fans and reviewers have pointed out that BNXN’s sophomore project feels static. “He seems capable of only making one type of music shaped by touchy mid-tempo melodies punctuated by wavy pop rap,” one review noted. The consistency in sound, while coherent, has been criticized for bordering on monotony.
Songs like ‘Eleyi’, ‘Yes Sir’, and the title track ‘Captain’ were singled out as weak points in the album, with critics describing them as “tired,” “incoherent,” and “poorly mixed.” Even his lyrics, usually praised for their emotional depth, were said to be lost in the over-familiarity of his delivery and sound.
Still, Captain has its moments. BNXN’s ability to blend English, Pidgin, and Yoruba is on full display in tracks like ‘Laye Mi’, while his R&B strengths shine through on ‘Cutesy’ and ‘Ashimolowo’. The collaboration with Victony on ‘Cough Syrup’ offers a confident message to critics: “They can’t touch my flows.”
The album’s cover art shows BNXN flanked by 16 soldiers representing the 16 tracks presenting himself as a lone leader of his fanbase. While symbolically powerful, some argue that the music doesn’t match the ambition of that imagery.
In all, Captain is not without merit, but its lack of diversity in flow, sound, and theme raises questions about BNXN’s long-term growth and versatility. For an artist with immense talent and confidence, critics say the album plays it too safe.
