Kendrick Lamar - Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers ALBUM REVIEW

Ambitious, musically impressive, and a bit off-kilter.  An emotionally challenged Kendrick provides us with a project shedding light on his shortcomings as a man, a father, and a public figure.  While at times the content matter may seem cognitively dissonant, this album stands as almost the antithesis to DAMN. in the same respect saying “You aren’t the trauma you’ve endured.”  A big step, if you will.

While this may have been the sonic shift Drake needed, the execution sounds uninspired.

Pusha continues to carve out new angles in his style and simply creates new experiences with the same tales of his unnerving past.  This record is musically impressive given the level range him and his collaborators display.

Vince speaks on a troubled youth with an almost deadpan delivery.  While this album is dejected in nature, exhausted at times, and borderline expressionless, his lean towards introspection is welcomed with good production and detailed storytelling.

Larry June, LNDNDRGS, and Jay Worthy demonstrate incredible chemistry.  This record is smooth, cohesive, and exactly what you need for a long drive on a hot summer night.

A literal tonal shift for Denzel allows him to turn his gaze inward and follow a more introspective direction on this record.  This album comes off as cohesive, thoughtful, and intimate.  It lends itself to being a solid listen, yet, it misses being vivid and provocative. 

Rosalía showcases exceptional range and diversity that feels almost free form.  This album is playful, tragic, and heartfelt without losing it's authenticity and cohesion.   

Glasper, an artist of collaboration, pulled together a work filled with soul and r&b that extends beyond his Jazz roots.  In the execution, this album displays cohesion and collectivism that sets this project apart from its predecessors.

Caprisongs showcases a more fun yet emotionally expressive album that casts a wide net over the sounds it's inspired by.  While staying light at heart, Twigs speaks on heart break, being comfortable in her own skin, and self-realizing her own worth.  Altogether, an enjoyable listen.

Dawn FM is more then just an album, but an experience.