The Redefinition of Overdose

By Ayomide Tayo

“It’s your favourite rapper’s favourite rapper’s favourite rapper” declares OD on the first track [Got to Love Me ft. Flo] off  his sophomore album- H.O.D [Hustle Or Die]. Ever since OD or Overdose started rapping since his SWAT ROOT days which boasted of rhyme juggernauts Mode 9 and Terry Tha Rapman he has been a cult figure in Nigeria’s hip-hop scene. While his name isn’t exactly a headlining act in the mainstream, OD is regarded as one of the finest wordsmiths in the rap game.

Desirous of becoming not just one of the best rap acts in the country but one of the best artistes, OD changes his strategy on his second album to hit at a wider audience. The rapper who is signed to X3M Music has traded in his timbs, baggys and XL t-shirts for some tailored suits. H.O.D is a polished set of songs composed by a rapper aspiring and aiming to be at the top of the ladder.

If you are looking for the biggest point of change on his LP, play Alujo ft. Solah. The Gongo-Aso-esque beat sees OD using his rhymes (there’s been a change of plans/up in the air is where I want your hands) to drive people to the dance floor while the hook performed by Solah ensures that they stay there.  

While Alujo is targeted towards the general public, Drinks in a Glass caters to the high-brow audience. “Call the girls to the bar even though they are not lawyers/give them something so they can shake it for us” spits OD as he encourages people to sip on fine wine, as they party and forget about their problems.

On the Terry G influenced Ginjah Me Up Overdose stretches his vocal muscles as he describes his amorous adventures with a member of the opposite sex. The title of the song might look corny and some of OD’s hardcore fans might balk but after a few good listens the track is a step in the right direction for OD. He takes it a few steps further on the Dirty-South influenced Hold Your Side which he crafts for his fellow hustlers.

Still, OD is a like an old dog who likes his old tricks, he is still an adulterated Hip-Hop junkie. He teams up with his rhyme partner Terry Tha Rapman. The two of them deliver on If I Catch You which is a hit among backpackers. On Crazy World ft. Black Solo, he is at his story telling best as he narrates two tragic stories aided by Black Solo’s aptly aided wailing chorus. Striving for balance, Overdose rounds up the disc with the inspirational Reach for the Stars.

A lot of artistes falter when they try to change or upgrade their styles. Only a select few have been able to re-define themselves with success. After being on the tongue of rap fans for years, H.O.D is an album that will see O.D’s being praised by the multitude of music listeners. Sure there are a couple of skip worthy cuts on the collection (e.g. Who You Know) the hard knock truth remains that as OD changed his sound, his lyrics are still on point. He doesn’t sell out or water his content; he has only packaged it better. OD has definitely hustled and instead of dying he has lived to see his money in the bank swell to large proportions.  

Rating- 3.5