Over the past few years a new lane in rap has seemed to emerge, filled by extremely positive, for lack of a better word, nerdy, suburban type rap. Spearheaded by acts like Chance the Rapper, DRAM, Childish Gambino, Lil Yachty (who pops up throughout the album), and most recently KYLE. Far from what has typically been associated with a “rapper”, he’s been so goofy, and so corny, that’s it’s become cool. It’s become his trademark and on his debut, Light of Mine, it’s cranked up to the max with bubbly, bright beats and plenty of self-assuring affirmations about avoiding negativity and staying true to yourself. But whereas with someone like Chance, who’s music can come off as “preachy”, his music doesn’t feel forced or agenda based, it’s just genuinely who he is. And while he may not fit the stereotypical rapper aesthetic, he is a technically gifted lyricist and the beats are undeniably catchy. At times the overwhelming positivity can become a bit sickening, like eating too much candy, but he knows his lane and he sticks to it with impressive focus. For what he sets out to do, Light of Mine is an impressive debut.
Post Malone's latest doesn't do much in the way of evolving his craft, as the entire album just feels like a long collection of homogeneous 'moods' with songs that sound like every other song on the album that sound like every other song on his previous album. But "beerbongs & bentleys" is an easy (if not mindless) listen and there are a good number of stand out moments, it's just that none of them feel as innovative or exciting as when he first burst onto the scene.
I'm a fan but I've been as critical of his music as any one out there, but Cole absolutely knocked it out of the park with KOD. Easily his most relatable project yet that has something for everyone. If you're still in the 'hate J. Cole' camp after this then you're just not listening enough or you haven't experienced life enough. Simple as that.
CARE FOR ME is an absolutely gorgeous project with lush soundscapes that allows Saba to lay down deep, emotional, introspective gem after deep, emotional, introspective gem. It's an exploration of grief, isolation, and trying to cope with the woes of life. But it's more cathartic than masochistic with glimmers of light at the end of the tunnel.
Skrrt, I am a wreck
I set a record for bein’ upset
Truthfully, honestly, I am a mess
I am depressed, I am obsessed
With self-deprecating and blamin’ myself
Socially lyin’, denyin’ the help
I’m holdin’ up like pants missin’ a belt
But it ain’t so bad
– “Ups & Downs”
Have you heard Light of Mine? What’d you think about it? Do you think it was, at times, overly positive? Let me know in the comments below and be sure to leave your own ratings and reactions for the album.
KYLE – Light of Mine Reaction
Conclusion
KYLE may not fit the stereotypical rapper aesthetic, but he is a technically gifted lyricist and the beats are undeniably catchy. At times the overwhelming positivity can become a bit sickening, like eating too much candy, but he knows his lane and he sticks to it with impressive focus. For what he sets out to do, "Light of Mine" is an impressive debut.
Fuego!!!
Ups & Downs
Games
To the Moon
Playinwitme
