Week 11

26/05/22

Kendrick Lamar - Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers

Without a doubt the most anticipated release this year, especially for me as I was sure that Kendrick had retired, this was a huge moment for hip-hop. Kendrick releasing a double album this year was definitely not on my radar. With almost no album rollout, I was not sure what to expect. But what we got was an interesting, versatile, and deeply personal project from Kendrick. Probably his most personal project to date, as the whole album feels like we are witnessing Kendrick in a therapy session. He spills his views on grief, regret, pressure and (of course) societal issues. Sonically, I don't think there are too many boundary-breaking moments. It, overall, sounds like quite a standard modern album from a big rapper (if that makes any sense), yet is done at the highest quality. There was nothing that really surprised me in the production, but it still did not feel out of place and Kendrick utilised it really well. There are more upbeat and trappy songs, like N95 and Silent Hill. It is odd to think that these songs are on the same album as hard-hitting, stripped-back songs like Worldwide Steppers and Mother I Sober. Lyrically, Kendrick rarely strays too far away from masterful performance. He conveys exactly what he has been dealing with in his mind perfectly through storytelling and pristine imagery. The layers in this album are no fewer than any of his other projects. I have heard these songs many times now, and am still picking up new meanings. I love how Kendrick rounds up the album on Mirror, simply saying "I choose me, I'm sorry". Almost as if that is the end of the therapy session and he finally realises that what he wants is more important than any outside pressures or preconceptions. The features are mostly good on here, as well. Sampha, as usual, smashes his part on Father Time (an amazing song). Also, shoutout Taylour Paige for an insane performance for someone who is not even a rapper. There are a couple of songs on here that are not as good as some others (Purple Hearts, for example) but there are none that I dislike. This album is great, and I just feel so blessed that we have new Kendrick Lamar to listen to. Let's hope he keeps on releasing music.

Favourite songs: United In Grief, Worldwide Steppers, Die Hard, Father Time, Rich Spirit, We Cry Together, Crown, Silent Hill, Savior, Mother I Sober, Mirror

Score: 9/10

IDK - Simple.

IDK over Kaytranada production is not something I ever knew that I needed, but it's pretty good. The production is done in the typical punchy style with overtones of dance-funk. IDK adds to this with some smooth flows and very impressive singing. Weirdly enough, the Denzel Curry feature is probably my favourite verse on this project. He slides over the production even better than IDK (not to say that he doesn't do a good job) and really just sounds in place. I've never heard Denzel over this kind of production, and it is something that I'd want to hear more of. I love the layered vocals on this project and the amount of work that has gone in to making something that seems very smooth and effortless. There is a lot of cohesion in this album, and it paints a great picture of relaxing in the sunshine. Or, driving in the nighttime down a picturesque road. That's the best thing about this project. It's not the actual substance itself, rather what it makes you feel and where it takes you. This isn't one to blow you away, but it's just a really nice listen. The album title describes it perfectly. 

Favourite songs: Drugstore, Dog Food, Breathe, The Code

Score: 7/10

Ella Mai - Heart On My Sleeve

Since Ella Mai released her self-titled album in 2018, I have been waiting for a new release from her. The few songs she has released in between have been solid, as well. The great thing about this is that the production quality has clearly increased, and she uses it really well. Her sound has clearly evolves, which is fantastic to see. I don't think the album needed to be as long as it is, as some of the songs do fall between the cracks. There are some standout moments, however. The two singles, Not Another Love Song and DFMU are two of the best songs on here. Pieces is one of my favourite songs released this year, as well. Ella's flow and inflections on this song are very different to what is on the rest of the album but it sounds great. Seeing her attempt something different is welcome as she clearly has the ability to do so. The songwriting has slightly improved, with a general story being clear as the album progresses. This is unusual in a lot of modern R&B records, making this an interesting choice that definitely paid off. I don't think the features added too much to the album as a whole, but they all sounded good in their respective songs. This was a very solid sophomore album from Ella. If it was a bit shorter and more ambitious, the quality would have skyrocketed. 

Favourite songs: Trying, Not Another Love Song, Break My Heart, Fallen Angel, How, Pieces, DFMU, A Mess, Leave You Alone, Sink Or Swim

Score: 7/10

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