Hammer Signals Triumphant Return With Forthcoming Album UPPER ECHELONS

Veteran Ghanaian music producer Edward Nana Poku Osei, popularly known as Hammer of The Last Two, has officially confirmed his return to active music production after nearly a decade away from the studio. Speaking on Culture Daily, Hammer outlined the motivations, research and creative direction behind his upcoming album titled UPPER ECHELONS.

Hammer disclosed that the decision to return was influenced by persistent calls from fans, industry leaders and fellow creatives. Media personality Bola Ray publicly shared his number, urging him to re-engage with the industry, while rapper Sarkodie delivered the most pivotal push.

“Sarkodie reminded me that now is the time producers finally have full visibility on their numbers through digital platforms it made no sense to step away at such a time,” he said.

This insight, Hammer explained, reignited his commitment to contribute meaningfully to the industry’s evolution.

Although he left active production for nearly ten years, the producer shared that it took more than two years of research and studio work to prepare this project.

He consulted industry peers such as EL, Shaker, and some others who provided updated sound packs and insights into modern production techniques.

“This album is not a mere comeback it is a study, a dedication to understanding what the

Hammer described UPPER ECHELONS as a project that celebrates Ghana’s top-performing artistes, individuals he refers to as “upper echelon talents.”

In a departure from his early career, where he focused on breaking new acts, this album mainly features established names and his favourites in the industry.

“All my life, I introduced new artistes. This time, I wanted to collaborate with the crème de la crème of our industry,” he said.

The forthcoming lead single brings together Sarkodie, Joey B and Medikal. According to Hammer, the combination was intentional to set an energetic tone for the album.

He described Joey B’s verse as “a conversational style that breaks new ground,” while Sarkodie and Medikal delivered performances “designed for the fun, party-driven feel” of the record.