I feel bad disliking this as much as I do, because it’s so clearly a massive passion project for Tabby. I really respect him for trying something different, and I genuinely hope he keeps making music—he’s clearly talented and has a unique artistic vision. But this just doesn’t work for me.
It comes across as pretentious and needlessly theatrical, and I found it hard to connect with on any meaningful level. Weirdly, it reminded me of Bo Burnham’s Inside and, in ... read more
This is such a disappointing album. The Whaler was one of my favorite records of 2023—it was raw, urgent, and emotionally explosive in a way few albums manage. So I was cautiously excited to see the band push themselves in a new direction. Unfortunately, this one just doesn’t work for me.
While I can appreciate the desire to branch out and experiment, the genre shift here, mostly toward a more alt-country/folk sound, feels underdeveloped and flat. A lot of the grit and ... read more
This album is all over the place—in the best way possible. I had to double-check more than once that I was still listening to the same project and not a shuffled playlist. It's chaotic, genre-blurring, and unapologetically bold. One moment you're hit with abrasive, synth-heavy beats, the next you're in a surprisingly gorgeous melodic stretch. And somehow, it all works.
The politically charged lyrics are sharp and unfiltered, even darkly funny at times. The rapping can come ... read more
This goes ridiculously hard for the first few tracks, but after that it starts to get a bit repetitive. Still, this is a really solid debut. The fusion of hip hop and hyperpop is pulled off surprisingly well—it’s chaotic in the best way, and when it hits, it really hits.
Despite The Alchemist’s stellar production and 2 Chainz’s mostly solid performance, the project as a whole falls flat due to Larry June’s uninspired delivery and mediocre writing, making it a disappointing yet sonically pleasing jazz rap album.
Favorite Song: Munyon Canyon
Least Favorite Song: Colossal
This is my first time listening to Shteppi, and it’s pretty good. It’s reminiscent of some of Josh A and Jake Hill’s work but with more interesting production and noticeably better writing. The first and final track are some of my favorites of the year so far, and the project as a whole is beaming with potential. Do I think that potential is fully realized on this album? Not quite—but I’ll definitely be tuning in for future releases.
Favorite Song: 20.
Least ... read more
A little bloated but still really good. I can’t remember the last time I sat through a 90-minute, 20-something track album and didn’t get bored. On first listen, I might even like this more than Dawn FM.
Favorite Song: Open Hearts
Least Favorite Song: Give Me Mercy
Pink Siifu's music has never fully clicked with me, but I can’t deny that this is an exceptional album. The more experimental production works brilliantly, the features absolutely kill it, and Siifu’s writing is as solid as ever. "LAST ONE ALIVE!" might even be one of the best hip-hop songs of the decade so far. My only complaint is the runtime. It’s a bit on the longer side, with some bloat that could have been trimmed for a more concise listening ... read more