Ghanaian spoken word artist and poet Nana Fredua-Agyeman Jr. released his sophomore album, ‘Wonder’, on December 25, 2023.
Following the success of his debut album, ‘Ponder’, which was considered for nomination at the Grammy Awards, ‘Wonder’ has been received with critical acclaim.
The album features eleven tracks with a total running time of thirty-four minutes and thirty seconds.
Nana showcases his artistry through thought-provoking lyrics and storytelling skills that paint vivid pictures in the listener’s mind. The album blends elements of hip-hop, soul, and spoken word poetry, creating a unique and sonically appealing soundscape.
The album review begins with the ‘Intro’ track, setting the tone for the central theme of curiosity, wonder, and the search for knowledge.
It introduces listeners to an avant-garde poetic journey, engaging them in a thought-provoking exploration.
Each track on the album explores complex themes, from the search for truth in ‘Solemn Rhetoric’ to the commodification of wisdom in ‘Sense For Sale’.
Collaborations with artists like David Dontoh and T. Monterisi add depth and nuance to the album, creating a powerful and introspective listening experience.
One standout track, ’12:34′, delves into the significance of a specific time that catches the poet’s eye daily, exploring themes of growth, balance, and perseverance.
Other tracks like ‘Hodge-Podge’ and ‘Honest Liar’ address the interconnectedness of the world, human contradictions, and the importance of empathy and self-reflection.
The album concludes with the ‘Outro’, featuring an interview-style conversation with Nana Kwame Osei Sarpong, providing a peaceful and contemplative closing to the poetic journey.
‘Wonder’ is a testament to Nana’s artistry and will be remembered as a groundbreaking work that elevates the spoken word poetry genre.
