With the release of Auracle, Nigerian street-pop sensation Shallipopi officially closes the trilogy that began with his breakout Planet Pluto EP and continued through Presido La Pluto and Shakespopi. The Edo-born artist’s latest project signals a new chapter: where his earlier work was the sound of a disruptor crashing the gates of the industry, Auracle is the sound of him reigning over the palace he now owns. The album title, a fusion of “Aura” and “Oracle,” reflects Shallipopi’s meteoric rise as both destined and inevitable.
Spanning 22 tracks, Auracle showcases the “Afro-pluto” sound that has become Shallipopi’s signature—a hypnotic blend of amapiano log drums, nursery-rhyme melodies, and streetwise philosophical musings delivered in his trademark nonchalant drawl. The production is more polished and expansive than his previous releases, balancing heavy basslines and trance-inducing hooks with sophisticated mixing and mastering that maintain street authenticity while appealing to international audiences. Tracks like lead single “Laho” feature intricate synth arrangements that provide a futuristic edge, marrying the grit of Nigerian street-hop with global sensibilities.
The album’s features highlight Shallipopi’s elevation in the global music scene. Atlanta rap star Gunna appears on “HIM,” blending trap flows with Nigerian rhythms seamlessly, while the remix of “Laho” featuring Burna Boy provides a coronation moment, with Burna’s commanding verse complementing Shallipopi’s airy delivery in a dynamic call-and-response. These collaborations underline Shallipopi’s ability to stand alongside international heavyweights without compromising his unique sound.
Lyrically, Auracle balances playful street lingo with more introspective reflections on fame, shifting friendships, and lifestyle changes. Shallipopi’s Benin vernacular and catchy ad-libs create mantras for his devoted fanbase, the “Plutomanias,” while his self-awareness adds depth to the project.
Ultimately, Auracle is a victory lap, cementing Shallipopi as a cultural fixture in Afrobeats rather than a fleeting viral sensation. Despite its ambitious 22-track length, the album’s highs are dizzying, proving that the “Pluto” wave is a rising tide that has permanently reshaped the genre. With this release, Shallipopi secures his place at the forefront of the industry, commanding attention and acclaim on a global scale
