Ghanaian songstress Cina Soul returns with new album Did I Lie, a compelling full-length project that cements her status as one of Ghana’s most gifted vocalists and storytellers. Across the album’s diverse sonic landscape—spanning Soul, R&B, Highlife, Afrobeats, and Dancehall—Cina showcases her signature vocal dexterity, emotional depth, and songwriting prowess.
The album opens with the poignant “Breathe”, an evocative ballad that immediately sets the stage for the emotional honesty that Did I Lie promises. Cina’s rich, expressive vocals glide over melancholic piano chords, seamlessly switching between English and Pidgin as she paints a vivid picture of overwhelming love.
The energy shifts with “Big Manye”, a triumphant anthem featuring Sefa, Titi Owusu, and Eleestee. Bright synths and Afro-infused percussion provide an uplifting backdrop for the song’s empowering message of overcoming adversity. Did I Lie continues to evolve with “Different Place”, where a buoyant synth bassline meets Cina’s soaring vocals, delivering a deeply personal reflection on growth and transformation.
A standout moment arrives with “Basintale”, where Cina steps into a bold Dancehall-inspired flow, effortlessly delivering rapid-fire patois-inflected verses over a rhythmically charged beat. This stylistic shift adds an unexpected dynamism to the album, proving her versatility. Similarly, “Larger Than Life” brings a different flavor, pairing Cina Soul with reggae/dancehall heavyweight Stonebwoy for a sensual Afrobeats duet that radiates chemistry.
One of the album’s brightest moments is “Personal”, a gorgeously arranged soul-infused track with buttery electric piano chords and delicate percussion. Cina’s soft, nuanced vocal delivery elevates the song to an intimate, heartfelt experience, making it a standout.
However, Did I Lie is not without its weaker moments. “Sexy Riddim” falls flat due to uninspired production choices, with a repetitive instrumental that fails to match Cina’s vocal strength. Similarly, “Tuff Times” closes the album on a somewhat abrupt and unpolished note, dampening the overall impact of the project’s final stretch.
Did I Lie is a testament to Cina Soul’s artistry, showcasing her exceptional vocal talent and lyrical ability. While the album has its peaks and valleys, it remains grounded and solid, affirming her status as a prominent figure in the music industry. Cina Soul’s capacity to express emotion through her singing and her thoughtful songwriting make this album a noteworthy addition to her discography.