NTTR - No Time to Review

The Good, The Bad & The Dollar Menu marks Ray Vaughn's debut under Top Dawg Entertainment, offering a compelling narrative of his journey from Long Beach's streets to the rap spotlight. The album delves into themes of economic hardship, personal growth, and the complexities of success. Critics have praised Vaughn's lyrical prowess and storytelling. Shatter the Standards describes the album as "a meditation on scarcity and leveling-up," highlighting tracks like "Flocker's Remorse" and "3PM @ Dairy's" for their candid portrayal of struggle and resilience. Musically, the album blends boom-bap beats with modern West Coast vibes. Collaborations with artists like Isaiah Rashad on "East Chatt" and Ash Leone on "Flat Shasta" add depth and variety to the project. The inclusion of skits and interludes provides a cohesive narrative thread throughout the album. Overall, The Good, The Bad & The Dollar Menu establ...

"Soul Burger" is Ab-Soul's most introspective and heartfelt album to date, paying tribute to his late friend and longtime collaborator Doeburger. The project delves into themes of loss, resilience, and personal growth, showcasing Ab-Soul’s complex lyricism and wordplay. Tracks like "9 Mile" and "B.U.C.K.O. Jr" stand out for their emotional depth and dynamic delivery. Featuring collaborations with Vince Staples, JID, and Lupe Fiasco, the album explores various moods and styles, balancing gritty storytelling with uplifting messages. While the production is cohesive and innovative, some tracks feel slightly repetitive, but overall, the album is a solid entry in Ab-Soul’s discography and a powerful homage to friendship and legacy. Sources: hiphopdx.com theweeklycoos.blog albumoftheyear.org stereoboard.com Genre : West Coast Hip Hop Country : US Final Verdict: 57% (Forgettable Album) Yearly Ranking: 948th / 1050 Highlight : Peace Made me think of: Kendr...

Kendrick Lamar's surprise release,  GNX , dropped on November 22, 2024, marking his sixth studio album and first independent project post-Top Dawg Entertainment. The album's title references the Buick Grand National GNX, symbolizing Lamar's journey and status in the rap industry.  GNX  features 12 tracks with contributions from artists like SZA, Roddy Ricch, and emerging Los Angeles talents, alongside production from Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, and Mustard. The album delves into themes of personal growth, industry dynamics, and Lamar's reflections on his career trajectory. Critics have lauded  GNX  for its cohesive production and Lamar's lyrical prowess, though some note it doesn't reach the conceptual depth of his earlier works. Overall,  GNX  stands as a testament to Lamar's adaptability and enduring influence in hip-hop. The Atlantic Associated Press GQ Genre : West Coast Hip Hop Country : US Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 538th / 884...