Also, I was discussing what the my friend what my top 5 rap albums of the year so far are, so I'll share them here as well.
1. Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers - Kendrick Lamar
Not much needs to be said about Kendrick's talent beyond that I regard him as the best of this generation handedly. It's too soon to call, but right now I consider this his best album yet. Pretty much says it all right there. Love the exploration of themes like generational trauma, pressures of fame, therapy, meditation and parenthood on this album. For someone who has always been mature beyond his years, this feels like Kendrick's most mature and thoughtful work to date.
2. $oul $old $eperately - Freddie Gibbs
For those who are uninitiated, Freddie Gibbs is a prolific mafioso/gangster/coke rapper from the Midwest. His delivery is one of the most fluent in the game and he practically can't make a bad song. He's previously produced classic albums such Pinata, Bandana and Alfredo. On this album, he ventures into a more grandiose style of music, with a more varied cast of producers and featured artists than what you'd find on those aforementioned albums, which I do like. Though the formula was tweaked, Freddie still brings his usual rapidfire delivery, complemented by his wit, bravado and ability to delve into heavy experiences from his younger days as well as those within his rap career. Album also features some great skits and cameos from people like Kevin Durant, Joe Rogan and Jeff Ross.
3. learn2swim - redveil
I had seen the name redveil before this year but finally gave him a proper listen for the first time a few months ago with the release of his album learn2swim. I was instantly drawn to the lo-fi sound, which is reminiscent of another one of my favorite rappers, Earl Sweatshirt. I do find the production to be more vibrant than what Earl would usually go with, so it creates a really cool juxtaposition with redveil's lethargic delivery. I see great things in the future for redveil, who is stunningly only 18 years old, though his lyrical content and poise on the mic is well beyond his years.
4. It's Almost Dry - Pusha T
I put Pusha T in a similar category to Gibbs, because the themes of their song are very similar - mostly centered around selling drugs and living lavishly. They also have the same tendency to inject humorous punchlines into their music, though both are able to also come off like cold blooded assassins at other times. I will say, I don't hold this album quite in the same esteem of Daytona (which is probably my 2019 rap AOTY) but I was far from disappointed by what we got here. Half the album is produced by Kanye and the other half by Pharrell. Push has made tons of music with both in the past, so I think the end product just makes sense. It's consistently good with a few particularly high highs, though I don't think at any point along the way you're really going to feel
blown away. Would obviously still recommend checking it out.
5. Drill Music in Zion - Lupe Fiasco
Lupe has been so damn good for so damn long that I think he's taken for granted by rap fans. I've had this discussion with friends in the past, and we tend to agree that in terms of making music that is both highly lyrical and heavy on meaningful subjects... as well as enjoyable to just listen to casually... Lupe is in a class that is only occupied by him and Kendrick. I don't think there's anyone else with the same combination of penmanship, rapping ability and musicality as those two guys. So that's saying a lot. This album is nothing but straight gold, front to back. It's one that you can really sit with and dissect the meanings of lyrics, or just toss on and vibe out to while you do some errands or something. Very complete.
Honorable mentions to The Forever Story by JID, Cocodrillo Turbo by Action Bronson, Sick! by Earl Sweatshirt, Ramona Park Broke My Heart by Vince Staples and Tana Talk 4 by Benny the Butcher.
