Odeal Drops New EP The Summer That Saved Me: Review
There are at least three things that contribute to the makings of a star: lyrical prowess, soulful vocals and an unwavering passion for your craft. Odeal has all of these in abundance.
The 25-year-old German-born, British-Nigerian artist is no stranger to the music industry, having released his debut EP New Time back in 2017. Since then, he’s delivered a multitude of projects, including Sunday at Zuri’s which houses viral breakout track Soh-Soh, features with Summer Walker and Isaiah Falls, and even a performance of his track All That It Takes on popular music platform COLORS. He’s regarded as a key figure within the Alté scene, often blending relaxed tones, a heavy dose of individuality and unique sonic textures to create something unmistakable.
Odeal’s music is intrinsically linked to his roots, with an upbringing spread between Nigeria, Spain and the UK. He has an enviable ability to adapt his sound, relevant to the seasons in which his projects were created, and succeeds in giving his listeners what they desire. The Summer That Saved Me is a masterpiece in genre-bending, taking us on a whistle stop tour of the Afrobeats, R&B, soul and Afro-Latin genres. It’s an exploration of vulnerability, freedom and pleasure, all wrapped up in a cocoon of sumptuous rhythms. Speaking on the meaning behind the project, he admits “I’ve always felt like pieces of myself exist in different places, this EP was about
The EP opens with Miami, a fitting title to kickstart the adventure we’re taken on for the next 20 minutes. The beat is minimalistic for the majority of the track, nothing more than the strumming of a guitar which allows for the fullness of Odeal’s voice to take centre stage. While the heart of the track conveys a level of self-reflection - “Constant running towards that liquor, you wanna heal you gotta feel quicker” - it also portrays itself as a romantic offering, revealing the need to bask in someone’s company for longer than time allows. The addition of R&B virtuoso Leon Thomas, elevates an already smooth joint to higher heights. He utters, “I don’t wanna go home I don’t want this night to end, cause I’m kinda scared I might never see your eyes again.” It’s an amalgamation of intricate harmonies and soft-spoken proclamations, Odeal and Leon making a formidable pairing.
Odeal - Miami (Official Lyric Video) ft. Leon Thomas
Hopping on a nine hour flight from Miami to London, we’re able to experience London Summers. It’s a feel good, sunshine-tinged track that encapsulates the joy that comes with good weather in the capital (on the odd occasion it happens). The perfect accompaniment to a car journey with the windows down and friends in tow, memories of the harsh winter months at the back of your mind.
Not letting up on his bid to provide a contender for the track of the summer, in comes third song My Heart. The incorporation of a steady drum pattern brings more life to the already bright composition. It’s lively and exciting, the song that gets backs off the wall at a party. His talents are on full display, flitting between English - “Ready to win you over, baby I’m far from sober, on the way up and you’re the drug” - and Xhosa in the chorus. He exclaims “Sabawela”, which means to crave, yearn or want. Who knew that infatuation could sound so good?
Odeal - My Heart (Official Lyric Video)
Obi’s Interlude slows things right down, an air of stillness cutting through the previously vivacious atmosphere. His feelings are exposed, laid on the table for all to see. It’s unhurried, calm and measured, Ezra Skys and Billy Blunt’s production the perfect backdrop for Odeal to reassure his muse that he wants her to feel safe.
Odeal - Obi’s Interlude (Official Lyric Video)
They say Patience is a virtue, and truer words have never been spoken. The penultimate track on the EP is arguably one of the best. A seductive instrumental, injected with the velvety sounds of a saxophone throughout. A waist-whining, body grinding number that’ll undoubtedly bring out a side of you most probably haven’t seen before. But saving the best till last, the pièce de résistance, an exquisite conclusion to a strong project - track seven In the Chair. Lovers, come to the front. The only appropriate way to describe this piece is a warm-blooded, full-bodied affair. It’s confirmation of pure satisfaction - “Nothing’s guaranteed but nutting, cause I know her body to a T” - oozing with confidence and sensuality. 2 minutes and 17 seconds is just not long enough.
Odeal - In The Chair (Official Music Video)
Odeal’s rise has been the definition of a whirlwind. A career full of success, and accolades - most recently being named Best Newcomer and Best R&B/Soul Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards - and co-signs from artists such as Victoria Monét and SZA. He delivers on his promise of creating a project that is the “soundtrack to the best summer since 2016”, something which has seemed almost impossible to replicate. It’s a lesson in creativity, as sharp as it is sexy. A body of work with impressive replay value, The Summer That Saved Me solidifies Odeal’s status as a staple in the R&B and Afrobeats realms.
