Soundscapes and Sensations: An EP Review of Omar Apollo
Written by Tumi Adeyoju on October 12, 2023
If you know of Omar Apollo, you see this man never has a bad song. His albums have taken a liking to more and more people as his fame grows. His last album Ivory was the cause of his sudden rise in popularity back in 2022. Mostly, known for his song “Evergreen (You Didn’t Deserve Me At All)”, on October 8, 2023, Omar dropped his latest EP Live For Me. With only four songs, he takes you on a soft melodic journey that he is famously known for.
“Ice Slippin”
[Chorus] When you comin' home? Home is where you're supposed to be Turn around, it's not too late, did I hurt you? You live too far away Are you turnin' off your phone again? If I take back my words, would you return to me?
Omar starts off his song with “Ice Slippin.” At the beginning of the song, we hear a piano-like melody before going into the chorus. As the melody plays, the artist begins to sing as if he is talking to someone. Like he is reading a letter or leaving a voicemail. Throughout the song you hear Omar switch between his soft singing to a more rash voice as he sings the verses. The song is ultimately his plea for his lover to come back to him. He wants to tell the truth about how he feels, but at the same time not want to say the wrong thing. Only for him to keep asking in the song “When you comin’ home?”
“Live For Me”
[Pre-Chorus] How you feel about the way your life is goin'? Tell me why you'd wanna go through it alone [Chorus] Won't you live for me? Or could I live for you? Oh There's nothing I won't carry So you don't have to, oh
In this song, you have Apollo singing out his heart to what we can assume is a lover of his. Through this EP you can get a sense that he is trying to tell a story through his songs. Having the listener put themselves in the song. As if they are the ones saying these words. “Live For Me” goes through the pain of having to see your lover in pain, and wanting to help them carry that pain even though they won’t let you. Omar soulfully sings as he has back-up vocals softly singing a single tune. Let’s just say this EP is going to need some tears and tissues to go with it. It will have you wanting to text that one Ex….so don’t.
“Angel”
[Chorus] Too young to grow wings, too young to be an angel Your mother needs you, woah Your father needs you Too young to grow wings, too young to be an angel Your mother needs you, woah Your father needs you, oh
“Angel” by Omar Apollo is a heartfelt and soulful track that encapsulates the emotional depth and raw vulnerability of his music. The song combines elements of R&B and indie pop, creating a lush, dreamy soundscape that beautifully complements Apollo’s soulful and emotive vocals. Lyrically, “Angel” explores themes of love, longing, and the complexities of human relationships. The singer’s lyrics are deeply introspective and contemplative, and his expressive delivery adds a sense of intimacy to the song. As the track progresses, the instrumentation gradually builds, adding a sense of urgency and passion to the narrative. This song is a powerful and evocative song that showcases Omar Apollo’s talent for crafting emotionally resonant music that speaks to the depths of the human experience.
“Pilot”
[Verse 2] And I dreamt about the hotel room Water drops on my forehead Raindrops got my clothes wet Got a drink and I poured that Vacay ruined, where are my hoes? I been lookin' (Child), I don't know Drivin' home drunk kinda buzzed on my birthday Eyes on God and my boss like a curly Drivin' home drunk kinda buzzed on my birthday Eyes on God and my boss like a curly
“Pilot” is a mesmerizing musical journey that exemplifies his unique blend of R&B, pop, and soul. This song, like many of Apollo’s works, is characterized by its sensuous, evocative lyrics and its distinctive, velvety voice. “Pilot” delves into themes of love, desire, and yearning, and its smooth and sultry production provides the perfect backdrop for these emotions. As the song unfolds, the listener is drawn into a narrative of longing and passionate connection, with Apollo’s vocals delivering a heartfelt and intimate performance. The song’s ethereal quality and emotional resonance make it a standout in Apollo’s repertoire, showcasing his ability to craft music that transcends genres and touches the heart and soul of his audience.
Omar Apollo continues to show that he is a talented artist who deserves his place in the music world. Always comes to his music with such depth, vulnerability, empathy, and creativity. His unique style of music is something to just stare in awe at. If you’re looking for songs to let yourself cry or feel to. Live For Me is worth a listen…and another and another after that.
