Does pleasant but in no way compelling pop music, with bits of reggae and deracinated Ben Harper, become more important because it is sung by a Nigerian woman?

Does that mild commentary on the brutal lives led by some, the brutish corruption of others and the blood of an innocent child become more profound when delivered by a striking presence even if the words themselves are no more insightful or deep thinking than a year 10 poem?

Asa is a burgeoning presence in Europe this year and this album is seen as a statement of a new Africa and a new approach to pan-cultural music.

I just can't see it.

Songs such as 360 Degrees, with lines such as "You don't have to climb/The highest mountain/ For all you're looking for/Is within you" is intellectually ho-hum and the mildly rhythmic middle-of-the-road pop music accompanying it is no help either.

Eye Adaba, sung in her native tongue, has at least a romantic '50s touch to it and if it states the obvious it is only clear if you read the translated lyrics. She may well be fascinating but her album isn't.