Lojay is looking to take center stage. The 26-year-old broke through a couple of years ago, pairing his stirring, distinctive melodies with compulsive lyrics to create LV N ATTN, his sophomore tape. The singles – “Tonongo” and the award-winning “Monalisa” showcased Lojay’s range: the former a stripped back, slow-burning Afropop number and the latter an irresistible Amapiano-inspired cut that catapulted the singer beyond the borders of the country and even the continent. His comeout party was, however, hosted by the legendary producer Sarz  who produced the entirety of LV N ATTN, taking the opportunity to both update his take on the ever-evolving Afrobeats soundscape — influencing many others, like he’s done for years, in the process — and continue in his tradition of working with fresh talents. 

It’s been a couple of years removed from his breakout now and the singer is firmly looking to establish himself. While the mamooth “produced by Sarz” silhouette loomed large over him for some time, he’s recently released his second solo project, Gangsta Romantic, a spiffing 7-tracker that shines the spotlight on Lojay and Lojay alone. His range, exquiste and quirky songwriting, and his exemplary ear for beats are all on display here, singing across a number of styles and genres. “AVAILABU” is the standout, Lojay staying true to form and professing his love in characteristic fashion over Magicsticks’ airy percussion, log drums and whistles: “I tell you I’m helpless against your waist (Waist) Girl / I’ve been outside the Bourdillon gate And I been waitin’ for a million days / I’m a bit obsessed with your way, oh, way.” 

Like most of Lojay’s best work, “AVAILABU” will make you move. It’s fun, enthralling, incredibly melodic and exactly the kind of memorable record that’ll plant Lojay’s feet, keeping him firmly in our ears and consciousness.