“Restless II” is a 6-track EP released in 2020, totaling 15 minutes. This project marks a significant shift in Simi’s sound, moving away from her typical sweeter Afropop style into the realms of future R&B and Afro-soul. It incorporates electronic elements, bass-heavy percussion, and intimate lyrical storytelling.
Thematically, the EP explores a complicated “friends-with-benefits” dynamic, where one person develops genuine feelings while the other resists. Regret creeps in, leading to a sense of emotional restlessness. Collaborations on the EP include artists such as Adekunle Gold, WurlD, and Ms Banks, with production by Sess and Oscar.
“Restless II” successfully maintains coherence and emotional depth, even though it wasn’t designed to achieve mainstream commercial success. It has been praised for its mature songwriting, textured production, and clear exploration of yearning and mis-timed connections.
