Emerging from a turbulent period, including a lengthy prison sentence, Pa Salieu's Afrikan Alien is a defiant statement of resilience and a celebration of his roots. The mixtape feels like a creative reset, with the British-Gambian rapper blending raw emotion, cultural pride, and sonic experimentation into a project that pulses with energy. Themes of freedom, identity, and resilience ripple through its Afrobeats rhythms and UK rap influences, creating a sound that's hard to pin down but undeniably his. At just 27 minutes, it's a brief but compelling snapshot of an artist in evolution.

Right from the opener, "Afrikan Di Alien," Pa Salieu draws you in with poignant storytelling and vibrant production that sets the tone for what's to come. The heavy influence of Afrobeats grounds the project in his heritage, giving it an infectious rhythmic pulse. Moments like "Dece (Heavy)," where he raps in his mother tongue for the first time, feel particularly significant — deepening the project's emotional resonance while underscoring its authenticity.

What makes Afrikan Alien stand out is its collaborative spirit. Black Sherif, ODUMODUBLVCK, and Byron Messia bring something fresh, adding catchy hooks and memorable verses that never overshadow Pa Salieu's presence. Tracks like "Big Smile" and "YGF" thrive on this synergy, mixing introspection with anthemic energy in a way that's destined to go off in a live setting.

Still, the mixtape isn't without its dips. The middle section loses some steam, with tracks like "Soda" lacking the punch of its stronger moments. And while the mixtape's shortness works in its favour by keeping the energy tight, it also leaves you wishing there was more time to dig into some of its themes. Thankfully, the closer "YGF" brings it all back together, ending things on a note that embodies his artistic development.

Thematically, Afrikan Alien is profoundly personal but universal, reflecting Pa Salieu's experience as a first-generation African in the UK. The lyrical execution can be uneven, but the ambition and emotional core are undeniable. It's less about flawless delivery and more about capturing a moment of maturing and growth, which this mixtape easily does.

Ultimately, Afrikan Alien is a compelling showcase of Pa Salieu's potential. While it might not feel entirely cohesive, its rawness and experimentation are part of its appeal. Drawing from his heritage while pushing sonic boundaries, Pa Salieu offers a glimpse of an exciting future ahead.