Watermelon Boy is an Australian producer with a unique style in electronic music, blending danceable Australian electro-pop rhythms with notes from the global south. His music is fire, featuring hot beats, memorable vibes, and an intense tropical drive. Watermelon Boy’s talent has been recognized: significant music publications are writing about him, and his tracks feature on editorial playlists on Spotify and Apple Music. Now, he’s back in action with a new album, “The Wow Signal.” The album’s 15 tracks warm up a cool night or provide relief on a hot day, showing that Watermelon Boy continues to maintain his grip and popularity.

photo by Karin Locke

In “The Wow Signal,” he has truly focused on crafting rhythms inspired by Afrobeat, dancehall, and reggaeton, and each track sounds unique, leaving an impression of endless summer. The album was produced by a team of musicians from various corners of the world: Ghana, Fiji, Chile, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Jamaica. This international mix has added unique shades to the release’s sound.

The album kicks off with the track “Outside,” featuring Magajie—a sunny rhythm and textures that immediately set the mood for dancing under the open sky. The track sets an intriguing tone for the entire album. Warm pads and gentle vocals create an atmosphere perfect for nighttime gatherings. But Watermelon Boy wouldn’t be himself if he played by the rules: he experiments with rhythms and pads, creating a fresh, almost avant-garde electronic sound that will captivate everyone. And the saxophone? That’s a story in itself, adding a special charm to the overall picture.

“Gbona” (featuring Green Baker) sounds simply magical. Stylish beats and a mix of genres, with deep Afrobeat vibes, create a hypnotic atmosphere. The free-flowing vocals, which become more passionate with each second, make this track a real gem. It easily captures your senses and leaves a lasting impression.

The next track, “Glistening Sand,” with its airy electro flourishes and catchy commercial pads, offers you a chance to completely immerse yourself. It’s an opportunity to catch your breath and enjoy the leisurely rhythms.

“Damn Son” starts off with a groovy electric guitar that gradually transitions into deep pads. Stylish hip-hop spoken word and a driving atmosphere with thick bass add a touch of sexiness to the album.

“Hall of Fame” (featuring BRYAN THE MENSAH and Jones 2.0) sounds very commercial and pumping. Excellent vibe, cool production, and a thumping beat make “Hall of Fame” my favorite on the album. I like how Watermelon Boy works with the atmosphere, making each track so distinct from the previous one. This highlights Watermelon Boy’s music and makes it so memorable. Then, in “Break That Board” (featuring Mark Dwyer and Richie Loop), a sharp, crisp beat explodes with excellent drive. This groovy track with reggaeton elements is so engaging that it’s impossible to stop listening. This is what makes Watermelon Boy’s music so unique.

photo by Karin Locke

Then comes “Break That Board” (featuring Mark Dwyer and Richie Loop) — a track with reggaeton elements so engaging that it’s impossible to tear yourself away. “Du Papa” continues the stylish sound of low and experimental beats, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most pumping tracks that should be in every playlist. The final “Cheap Drinks & Bad Decisions” gives a feel of a tropical party where limitless fun reigns. It’s a track you want to close your eyes to and melt into the textured electro sound. A powerful conclusion to the album, leaving you wanting more.

“The Wow Signal” is like a pleasant assault on the ears. You find yourself at a beach party where each track is a little universe. Watermelon Boy is no slouch here: mixing beats like a shaman, each time pulling something unexpected out of his hat.

Watermelon Boy invited musicians from every continent to join in, making the album truly international. It doesn’t matter whether you’re from France, Spain, Madagascar, or Australia — “The Wow Signal” sounds universal. This album speaks a language understood by anyone open to new sounds and unafraid to dive into a boundless tropical journey. It’s that rare case where music genuinely unites, erasing borders and cultural differences. If you’re looking for something to make your ears forget about the mundane, this album is for you.

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*This review was made possible by SubmitHub