Childish Gambino

Because the Internet

Connecting with the album is nearly impossible, understanding it is difficult, and often enough, its inflated ego is irksome, but Because the Internet is too free and fascinating to be dragged down by these complaints, so if a Yeezus with more flash and fun is what's required, Gambino's got the good stuff.

Because The Internet shows off his full array of talent (writer, musician, comedian) and makes him stand out from the rest.

It's one of the least cohesive hip-hop records of the year, but it's that incoherent nature that makes it so compelling. 

Because the Internet is a vast improvement over his debut effort, showcasing an artist who has confidently found a way to coalesce his love for music and films into one hybrid effort.

Because the Internet is ambitious and daring. The surrounding flutter of puzzle pieces adds depth, but the record still stands on its own as a bold statement on modern life and the cold distance technology places between human relationships.

Because The Internet is the first release of Glover’s that doesn’t have the mist of amateur work.

Anxious introverts may recognize what Childish Gambino does here, repeatedly: flit around, try to be sociable, but then flee. Childish Gambino still manages to mostly hold our attention, though, because he concerns himself instead with his own terms.

Most of these developments are steps in the right direction, yet there are still areas where Because The Internet falters: It indulges far too often in dubstep tendencies.

‘Because The Internet’ actually represents a subtle withdrawing from the pugnacious playacting of ‘Camp’ for a better focus on the traits that make its maker singularly appealing.

Because the Internet is not to be dismissed. Gambino is observant and often funny, and his loose-limbed flow can sting.