Tim Lyre, the musical maven hailing from the vibrant streets of Lagos, Nigeria, whose latest EP, “Masta,” is not just a collection of songs but a borderless sonic journey. Tim Lyre isn’t just an artist; he’s a boundary-pushing force, a storyteller weaving emotions into every note, lyric, and beat.
Timothy Oyesanya Popularly known as Tim Lyre, the maestro behind the magic, started his musical expedition exploring classical music and piano at 10. Fast forward, and his metamorphosis led him to embrace contemporary sounds and delve into music production in 2012. The spotlight beckoned in 2016 with “Mornings,” and since then, Tim has been cultivating a community on SoundCloud while dropping EP gems like “Indigo,” “Senpai,” “3 Strains,” and “K.A.P.”
Last year, he gifted us the soul-stirring album “Worry <,” where the symbol “<” symbolised “less.” Now, building on that success, Tim Lyre presents “Masta,” an EP that transcends boundaries and showcases his evolution as an artist. In this meticulously crafted project, Tim Lyre emerges not just as an artist but as a captivating storyteller, dispelling any notions of creative weariness or settling for the status quo. The journey kicks off with “Why Evils,” featuring the soulful Tay Iwar. Tim’s measured verses, entwined with Iwar’s vibrant contribution, set the stage for a triumph-laden odyssey. According to Tim, “Chasing Wind,” the first song recorded, became a catalyst, inspiring the best version of oneself.
“Running Over” pulsates with drum beats and chord progressions, paying homage to musical influences like Leon Haywood and Dr. Dre. Tim’s lyrical prowess asserts dominance, proclaiming, “Now wey I don master the art, you can call me Van Gogh.”
In collaboration with UK rapper Jords on “Masta,” Tim Lyre navigates a nocturnal party anthem, solidifying his position in the Nigerian music landscape. The EP takes a thematic detour with “Skyline,” where Tim pays homage to success against distorted strings and chords. He shares, “Lagos itself is a grind, so that’s always enough to fuel some creativity.” The lead single, “Chasing Wind,” showcases Tim’s self-produced expertise, seamlessly blending electric guitar strings with commanding drums and piano keys.
The song delves into the vanities and mental toll of success, expressing an unwavering determination to keep moving forward. In the playful composition “Confess,” Tim unveils a witty side, inviting a lover to share intricate thoughts. The EP’s penultimate track, “Tighter,” featuring Minz, delves into a charged, sensual atmosphere, vividly portraying intimate encounters. Tim emphasises, “I write what I live through and what I know. Everyone deals with ups and downs, and I’m no different.” Closing on a high note with “Mood,” a House record featuring Khanyisa, Tim collaborates to create a melodic narrative about intimate moments. The cross-cultural collaborations from Nigeria, the UK, and South Africa underscore the harmonious blend of voices and cultures, making “Masta” a masterpiece.
In the ever-evolving tapestry of afro-fusion, Tim Lyre stands as a maestro sculpting an unparalleled narrative. “Masta” is not just an EP; it’s a living testament to Tim’s musical evolution, seamlessly blending hip-hop, dancehall, Amapiano, R&B, and afrobeats through his Afro-futurist lens. Tim Lyre’s ability to navigate and unify these sonic landscapes paints a masterpiece that transcends borders, embracing the essence of a truly borderless sonic journey. In 2023, “Masta” doesn’t merely add to the afro-fusion conversation; it redefines it, leaving an indelible mark on the global musical landscape. Tim Lyre’s artistry is not confined; it soars, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next chapter in his musical odyssey.
