Nigerian alternative music pioneer Cruel Santino has returned with “K.O.T.B. (The Bomberman Chronicles),” a 14-track album that pushes past the usual Afrobeats sound and into stranger territory. The project pulls listeners deeper into the creative world he built around his music.
It follows the universe he introduced through Mandy & The Jungle and Subaru Boys: FINAL HEAVEN. But this collection carries something heavier underneath. Santino drew from the loss of a close friend who lived with him while he was building his career. That grief shaped the emotions behind the album and its wider storyline.
“K.O.T.B. (The Bomberman Chronicles)” also moves through friendship, survival and the search for purpose. Jeriq joins him on “Oz.,” bringing indigenous rap delivery into Santino’s alternative sound. Mavo appears on “Siesta,” while Helena Gao features on “Rolen” and Zaylevelten on “Big Drop.”
Other records include “Bomberman,” “International Collector,” “Stubborn,” “Gypsyy Gowns,” “Nutty Duchy” and “Game of Death.” There is also “Benin Bounce,” a title with a familiar Nigerian ring to it.
Which track off the album are you playing first? Drop your pick in the comment section below.
