Bobby Blane and producer Tumzbeatz have struck up a working partnership over the years through their musical exploits. Their catalogue together includes two songs on Bobby’s “OAK (Of a Kind)” EP, one of which is a delicious offering titled “Baller”. On the record, the pair display good synergy that evidently has an effect on how good their music sounds. “Baller” is a sweetly sung dance record cut from the cloth of Afrobeats and intended to shut down parties and clubs. For Bobby Blane, “Baller” highlights his sultry vocals and catchy songwriting as Tumzbeatz’s production serves as one of the song’s main selling points.
Tumzbeatz has shown, through her catalogue, that there is strength in versatility. On this record she employs the use of bongo drums, setting the tempo for the rest of the song at 112 BPM on a G# key. The production is set on the plane of Afrobeats which naturally calls for instrumental elements that will light up a dancefloor. The keys add sweet-sounding musicality to the song, while the log drums give “Baller” a layered feel and an emphatic beat drop. Tumzbeatz lays the production in a structured, progressive manner, where new elements are introduced as the song wears on. Its progression ties every element together into one melodic composition.
The result is a feel-good record made for the dancefloor. “Baller”, from the song lyrics, alludes to the experience of bubbling nightlife within metropolitan cities. Tumzbeatz’s instrumental selection brings a sense of euphoria to the listener, captivating them in the sweet intoxication of Afrobeats music. “Baller” is the kind of record that serves as a soundtrack to many wonderful memories with city lights and close friends.
Bobby Blane is decisive as usual on the record. He weaves patterns between Tumzbeatz’s intoxicating production, adding new layers to the song with clever writing and a sultry voice. He shows on this record, also throughout the OAK EP, that he’s capable of existing in many musical environments. Bobby Blane shows he is also capable of delivering club bangers, adding more versatility to his catalogue.
Once again, the duo showcase their talent in the presence of each other, to good effect. Bobby Blane and Tumzbeatz have created an environment where their abilities, while feeding off each other’s energy, can flourish. “Baller” is another testament of their musical artistry as individuals and as a duo.
