Ultimately, “Slow” is a promising effort that shows Darishow’s ability to create an engaging atmosphere through his vocals and choice of production.
By Emmanuel Esomnofu
Darishow takes an unhurried approach on his single “Slow”, leaning into the sensual side of Afro-Pop with relaxed vocals and a midtempo production. The song draws on familiar themes of attraction and intimacy, allowing its rhythm and instrumentation to carry much of the mood.
“Slow” opens with Darishow singing in a low, almost sleepy register, as though he has just woken up or is still recovering from the previous night’s activities. The delivery suits the song’s intimate atmosphere, giving his performance a relaxed quality that works well with the production. It is an effective introduction to a record that explores desire without appearing particularly hurried about it.
The production carries traces of the Afro-Pop sound that was popular in the 2000s, with a warm, midtempo rhythm that leaves enough room for Darishow’s vocals. It is neither completely laid-back nor particularly energetic, finding a comfortable space between the two. That balance works in the song’s favour, allowing the music to suggest intimacy while retaining enough movement to make it danceable.
Amid the Juju-influenced drums and bright synths, Darishow reassures his love interest with the words, “no lose control”. The instrumentation gives the song a lively quality without disturbing its relaxed atmosphere. His lyrics, however, are less convincing in places, relying on familiar romantic expressions when a little more imagination could have made the writing more memorable.
Still, the song feels like it could have gone further. At just under two minutes, “Slow” ends before some of its ideas have been fully explored. The production establishes an appealing atmosphere, but a second verse might have given Darishow more room to develop the story and bring greater depth to the songwriting. As it stands, the record has its moments, although its brevity leaves something to be desired.
Ultimately, “Slow” is a promising effort that shows Darishow’s ability to create an engaging atmosphere through his vocals and choice of production. With greater attention to his songwriting and a willingness to develop his musical ideas further, he has room to establish himself as a distinctive voice in Afro-Pop.
Emmanuel Esomnofu is a Nigerian writer and culture journalist. He was named Best Writer of 2024 by The Republic and was selected in 2025 as a Tender Visions fellow. He’s currently working on his debut manuscript.