The surprise drop has become a definitive status symbol within the music industry. Popularised by Beyoncé’s self-titled 2013 release, this strategy has been widely adopted by other A-listers, capitalising on their star power to prove that a successful project can be launched without a conventional promotional campaign. In recent months, Kendrick Lamar’s ‘GNX,’ Justin Bieber’s ‘Swag,’ and Tyler, the Creator’s ‘Don’t Tap the Glass,’ have all emerged unannounced, suggesting the strategy is back in fashion. 

In the early hours of this morning, Tems added her name to this illustrious list, as a new 7-track EP titled ‘Love Is A Kingdom’ appeared on streaming platforms without prior announcement or fanfare. The sudden arrival of the project marks a significant moment for the Grammy-winning singer, as she looks to build on the success of her previous work and offer a deeper exploration of her signature blend of soulful R&B and Afropop influences.

WHAT WERE YOUR EXPECTATIONS OF TEMS GOING INTO THIS EP? 

Melony: These days I don’t know what to expect from Tems. ‘Born in the Wild’ had moments where it lagged for me, so I was in full anticipatory mode, waiting to see what direction she would choose next. 

Michelle: Honestly, I had zero expectations, considering I’m not a fan of surprise releases. The anticipatory buildup before a project drops gives a sense of connection and expectation, which can positively influence its reception. Still, I hoped hers would change my belief.

Boluwatife: Seeing as she hadn’t released any music all year, and she had only done a couple of features, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. I guess that’s the inherent thrill and experience of surprise drops: you’re supposed to go in blind, without the bias of any marketing hype or pre-released singles. 

WHAT SONGS STOOD OUT ON THE FIRST LISTEN?

Michelle:  “Is There A Reason” easily resonated with me and it’ll be on replay. The guitar element was prominent throughout the record, and it made me imagine her on a song with Passenger. That aside, it’s the only solemnly emotive track on the project. 

Kofoworola: “Big Daddy” definitely stood out on first listen. It’s audacious, playful, and the visualizer just sealed the whole experience for me. The rhythm is impossible to ignore.

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PRODUCTION ON THIS PROJECT?

Melony: The production on this EP is more adventurous. The opening tracks ride looping drum patterns that can feel a touch repetitive, but they set up the project’s soaring highs. “What You Need” is where it all clicks for me. The track’s slow-groove R&B hits all the sweet spots, making it easily the cutest record and the closest the EP comes to tapping into Tems’ frankness and the version of her that excelled at building immersive soundscapes.

Daniel: I feel like Tems has found what works for her it’s almost as if she wants you to know that every song is a Tems song without hearing a single lyric and it hits you just like that.

WHAT SONG HAS THE BIGGEST HIT POTENTIAL?

Boluwatife: This is arguably the most upbeat project she’s put out so there’s potential for a number of these new tracks to pop off. But if i was to choose one, I’ll probably go for “What You Need,” one of the project’s more downtempo cuts. It sounds like a Tems classic already and feels like a song that’ll have more staying power than some of the more bouncy tracks that might initially grab attention or gain virality. 

Shina: Hmm, “I’m Not Sure”. Haha, see what I did there. Okay so it’s a very hard pick but I’m going with “I’m Not Sure”. A lot of the songs in this surprise drop are pretty up-tempo and that’s very surprising to be honest. Especially, if I compare with her previous EPs. Another good shout is “Big Daddy,” I think this might go viral. 

OVERALL FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Melony: The EP is a blithe, uncomplicated project and I appreciate the freedom Tems clearly took. Of course, I also wish she had bitten harder into the meat of its themes and been more emotionally honest; so much of the groundwork is there, but she stops just shy of committing fully to it.

Daniel: For a surprise drop, I had a great time with it. It was a casual listening experience and a great addition to her discography I loved that it had no features too made the whole project feel personal and free.

Michelle: I waited for the moment to connect with the EP and it happened with the last two songs, which makes me conclude that it would have been an immersive experience if “What You Need,” and “Is There A Reason” opened the EP and the uptempo songs came after. Regardless, it’s an okay project, the type that’ll grow on you with multiple listens.