Album Review: Jalen Ngonda, Doctrine Of Love

For many of his admirers, Jalen Ngonda’s artistic qualities are directly tied up with his age – they’re drawn to the fact that, as a 32-year-old in 2026, he boasts a vintage ‘60s soul croon. Whether there’s much more under the surface is open to debate.

Ngonda’s songs closely follow a Motown/soul template, in the same way Greta Van Fleet strictly adhere to a ‘70s rock/Led Zeppelin playbook. If this is what you’re after, then Doctrine Of Love will certainly appeal. It undeniably possesses excellent musicianship and slick production, even if lacking a certain lyrical flair. In particular, the title track veers into ChatGPT-style motivational speak, with lines like, “Here’s your doctrine of love / You have to pay the price, make the sacrifice… You have to pay your dues, and roll with the blues.”

While tunes like ‘Burning Temptation’ feature a nice strut and pleasing backing vocals, overall there’s little to properly excite the floating punter throughout the LP, even if Ngonda devotees will no doubt enjoy it.

6/10