Shallipopi’s 22-track ‘Auracle’ album solidifies his empire

With the release of Auracle, Shallipopi has now completed the powerful trilogy that began with his breakout Planet Pluto EP and evolved through Presido La Pluto and Shakespopi. If his earlier projects captured the raw energy of a newcomer forcefully breaking into the industry, Auracle represents the sound of an artist fully settled into his throne. The title itself — a fusion of “Aura” and “Oracle” — speaks volumes. It suggests that his rapid ascent was not merely the product of star power or luck, but something written in destiny.

Across an expansive 22-track body of work, the Edo-born star confidently amplifies his signature “Afro-pluto” sound — a hypnotic cocktail of amapiano log drums, childlike melodies, and streetwise philosophical reflections delivered in his cool, laid-back drawl.

From a production standpoint, Auracle marks a clear sonic upgrade from the lo-fi texture of his earlier records. While the core identity of the Pluto sound — heavy basslines and looping, trance-like hooks — remains intact, the album benefits from noticeably cleaner mixing and more layered arrangements. Songs like the lead single “Laho” showcase intricate synth progressions that inject a futuristic feel into the project, perfectly matching Shallipopi’s constant cosmic imagery and interplanetary references.

The producers strike an impressive balance: preserving the gritty street essence that makes him authentic, while refining the sound enough to resonate with a global audience. As a result, despite its length, the album rarely feels overwhelming or exhausting.

The guest appearances on Auracle further signal Shallipopi’s elevated status in the music hierarchy. The inclusion of Atlanta rap sensation Gunna on “HIM” stands out as a major international crossover, seamlessly merging U.S. trap energy with Nigerian street-hop in a way that feels organic rather than calculated. On the home front, the “Laho” remix featuring Burna Boy feels almost ceremonial — a symbolic passing of the torch. Burna’s heavy, commanding delivery contrasts beautifully with Shallipopi’s airy vocal style, creating a back-and-forth that is almost guaranteed to dominate dancefloors during the festive season. These collaborations go beyond buzz; they position Shallipopi’s sound within a global context and affirm that his energy can comfortably coexist with the industry’s heavyweights.

Lyrically, Shallipopi remains one of the most intriguing figures in Afrobeats. He continues to lean heavily into street slang and Benin dialect, often crafting hooks that may appear simplistic on paper but transform into addictive chants once paired with music. Still, Auracle reveals a more reflective side than fans are used to. He touches on the weight of fame, shifting friendships, and the dramatic transformation of his lifestyle.

There’s a striking level of self-awareness in his writing — he understands that his approach divides opinion, and instead of softening his edges, he doubles down with an unshakeable confidence that sometimes borders on arrogance. He makes no attempt to impress lyrical purists; his message is clearly aimed at his core fanbase, the devoted “Plutomanias” who thrive on every ad-lib and coded phrase.

In the end, Auracle feels like a well-earned victory lap. It confirms Shallipopi’s evolution from viral disruptor to lasting cultural force. While the 22-track runtime inevitably includes a few moments of excess, the standout records soar impressively high. This album proves that the Pluto movement was never a fleeting wave destined to fade — it is a rising tide that has permanently reshaped the Afrobeats landscape. With this project, the Presido has not only secured his seat at the table, but strengthened his grip on it — and his approval ratings have never looked better.

Listen to Auracle here.