TESTING

When TESTING dropped in 2018, it was met with mixed reactions. Many fans expected another polished, mainstream-friendly project like AT.LONG.LAST.A$AP or LONG.LIVE.A$AP, but instead, Rocky went in a different direction, pushing sonic boundaries, blending genres, and, true to the album’s name, testing new sounds. In hindsight, TESTING was ahead of its time, an ambitious and experimental record that deserved more recognition than it initially received.

The album opens with Distorted Records, a fitting introduction that sets the tone with harsh, blown-out bass and glitchy production. It’s a bold statement—this isn’t going to be the smooth, radio-friendly Rocky that some expected. Instead, Rocky embraces lo-fi aesthetics and raw, unfiltered energy.

One of the album’s biggest moments is A$AP Forever, which samples Moby’s Porcelain and creates an ethereal, larger-than-life atmosphere. This track is a perfect representation of Rocky’s ability to blend nostalgia with futuristic production, and it remains one of the most memorable songs in his catalogue.

Rocky doesn’t completely abandon bangers, though. Tony Tone and Praise The Lord featuring Skepta bring infectious energy, with the latter being one of the standout tracks of the album, thanks to its hypnotic flute-driven beat and Rocky and Skepta’s undeniable chemistry. Meanwhile, Buck Shots and Black Tux, White Collar are hard-hitting tracks that remind listeners of Rocky’s Harlem roots.

What really makes TESTING special, however, is its more introspective and melodic moments. Kids Turned Out Fine is dreamy and nostalgic, with hazy, psychedelic production that perfectly captures the album’s experimental spirit. Hun43rd and Changes showcase Rocky at his most vulnerable, reflecting on love, loss, and personal growth. The closing track, Purity, featuring Frank Ocean, is one of the most beautiful songs on the album. Frank’s contributions elevate the track to another level, making it a fitting and poetic ending.

Looking back, TESTING was a risk, a departure from Rocky’s usual sound that wasn’t fully appreciated at the time. But its influence can still be heard today, proving that Rocky was ahead of the curve. It may not be his most commercially successful album, but it stands as one of his most artistically ambitious and underrated projects.