filthy's Album Reviews (''Everything's Fine'')

[filthy]

Reviewing albums has always been something I've been fond of. But something that I have never done is writing them down and sharing them, it has always been something I did in my head basically. I'll be reviewing both new and old albums, and take suggestions if anyone is even interested.

The next album to be reviewed is: ''ASTROWORLD'' by Travis Scott

If you're interested in my opinions and would like to be tagged, let me know. Otherwise, this will work as an ''archive'' for me and my opinions. (I'm not going to rush this, I'll do it when i'm bored lol)

SPOILER: Click to show

Albums reviewed:
''DAMN.'' - Kendrick Lamar 9,5
''Everything's Fine'' - Jean Grae, Quelle Chris 8,0
''1999'' - Joey Bada$$ 7,5
''KOD'' - J. Cole 7,5
''Palo Santo'' - Years & Years 6,0

Songs that have recieved 10/10:
''FREINDS'' - J.Cole
''LOVE.'' - Kendrick Lamar
''XXX.'' - Kendrick Lamar
''DUCKWORTH.'' - Kendrick Lamar
''River'' - Jean Grae, Quelle Chris

lots of the information about the songs i review are from genius.com

[filthy]

J. Cole - ''KOD''

J. Cole’s fifth studio album ''KOD'' came as a surprise to everyone. Being released just a week after the announcement was sure to create some hype. Already after the listening event in NY, fans knew it was going to be another traditional J. Cole album. The title ''KOD'' can be interpreted in three different ways:

Kids On Drugs
King OverDosed
Kill Our Demons

The album encompasses the theme drugs and is known for repeating the phrase ''choose wisely''. The album was released on April 20 (420), which is a code-term in cannabis culture that refers to the consumption of cannabis and smoking cannabis in celebration on the date April 20. The phrase ''choose wisely’'' is already used on the very first track, ''Intro''. It’s also used on standout track ''ATM'' and many others. Cole wants us to ''Choose Wisely'' when dealing with our pain, in correlation to drugs and prescriptions. Fans were disappointed when they saw a feature in ''kiLL edward'' which was later revealed to be J. Cole’s alter ego, which is Cole himself, just pitched down.

1. Intro
On ''Intro'' Cole sets the mood for his 5th studio album. He talks about a newborn baby in the beginning. Babies don’t know right from wrong and pick up what goes on around them. Cole experienced having a newborn baby himself, as he revealed on the track ''She’s Mine, Pt. 1'' on his former album. It’s a great opener to the album, with a great production and already deep lyrics. (Won’t be rating this, because it’s not a proper song)

2. KOD 8/10
The title track continues with this focus on drugs; Cole mentions ''flips’’, ''keys’’, and ‘''ricks’’ repeatedly in the chorus. On the track itself, Cole flexes towards the audience and his competition on the first verse, whilst simultaneously addressing comments about features on his album. The second verse and the chorus of the song elaborate more about Cole’s youth and the drugs that his surroundings got him involved in. Lyrics are great, but not as deep as they could be. Great beat and Cole’s flow is amazing on this song.

3. Photograph 6/10
On ''Photograph’’ Cole describes falling in love just by looking at a girl’s picture on the internet. The only way drugs come into the picture here, is by interpreting social media as drugs. I’m not a fan of the chorus on this one, and the lyrics are a little 'fake deep'. Not bad, but Cole could’ve definitely done this better.

4. The Cut Off 7,5/10
“The Cut Off” appropriately named, talks about Cole having to cut people off who were close to him due to lack of trust and being taken advantage of. J. Cole is advocating against drugs because of the experiences he has seen of those who use substances around him. Edward – Cole’s alter ego - is a quintessential example of an addict who is manipulated by the drugs that he is using. Cole wishes to be helpful and prevent the possibility for further victims in his community, as well as at a larger scale in society – he doesn’t want to see anyone else like Edward, or himself. Great, great, message Cole provides here. Not amazing musically, but that’s not what Cole is going for.

5. ATM 8,5/10
One of the albums most energetic tracks, ''ATM’’ is a song that highlights J. Cole’s relationship with money and how he dealt with the fame he quickly gathered. The song title is an abbreviation for “Addicted To Money,’’ which is what Cole once was. In the music video, drugged-out kids are chasing a dollar bill on a hook, similar to the album cover for Nirvana’s Nevermind. Surprised by how deep these lyrics actually are. The beat and the production is top-notch, and overall one of the better songs on the album.

6. Motiv8 8/10
''Motiv8’’, or ''Motivate'', is similar to the previous track. It’s about the motivation to get money. It’s a short, energetic, and fun song that’ll work for whatever occasion. It’s quite repetitive with lines such as: ''Motivate (motivate), motivate (motivate) (get money)’’ and ''I’m feelin’ alive, I’m feelin’ alive.’’ Aside from the repetitiveness, this is a great track overall.

7. Kevin’s Heart 8/10
The title itself on the 7th track is a reference to comedian Kevin Hart, who admitted to cheating on his wife. The music video display Hart facing judgements by the people around him, and him recognizing his mistake. This runs parallel with Cole’s own cheating nature, and also ties into the overall message of the album – to Choose Wisely. Good lyrics, flow and production come into the picture in this song. A perfect way to start the second half of the album.

8. BRACKETS 4,5/10
''BRACKETS’’ is a weird one. It’s the only song I don’t see following the main theme for the album. ‘'choosing wisely’’ and drugs are nowhere to be found on this song. It’s about taxes, and that’s it. It’s almost like Jermaine is complaining about having to pay taxes. Was disappointed by this at first listen, and I still am today.

9. Once An Addict – Interlude 5,5/10
J. Cole uses “Once an Addict” to detail the development of his feelings concerning his mother’s relationship with alcoholism. Cole uses this interlude to show that he also deals with drugs and substances like alcohol, in his personal circle. He ends up reminiscing and wishing that he had interfered more. The interlude ends with''Choose wisely’’ yet again. You can’t expect much from an interlude, and this is an example of Cole’s average level.

10. FRIENDS 10/10
HOLY LYRICAL MASTER! Cole starts off slowly, but later goes off and let all his thoughts flow through him; Edward (Cole’s alter ego) is the victim of drug addiction and abuse. He is evidence of how controlling and overtaking these substances can become. Cole is emphasizing that the battles fought by victims of substance abuse are caused by deeper, darker reasons. Their reliance on drugs is deeper than the surface; to them, it is internally straining. I have interpreted the title in two ways: ''Friends’’ as in drug and ''Friends’’ as in Cole’s friends. He wants individuals, including his own friends, to feel comfortable with themselves again. Absolute masterpiece.

11. Window Pain – Outro 7,5/10
For the duration of this song, Cole is self-reflective and contemplative as he discusses the things he truly wishes for in life. He wants to help and care for people around him, namely his family, and he wants to finally be able to celebrate his own success after all he’s been through. This song is good both musically and lyrically, solid track.

12. 1985 – Intro to ‘’The Fall Off’’ 9/10
“1985” represents the year Cole was born and serves as both a reflection of his life as well as a cautionary tale to budding new generation rappers. In it, he adopts the tone of an older, more experienced mentor and compares his experiences to theirs, responding to their irreverent criticism with only a wish that they learn something from their recklessness in their younger years, just as he did.

In conclusion: Cole is clearly disturbed by his own encounters with drugs, and wants the people around him to choose wisely when making decisions. No J. Cole album will ever beat ''2014 Forest Hills Drive,’’ but this was a solid listen.

''But I know depression and drug addiction don't blend''
From ''FRIENDS''

7,5/10

Some Urban 🅱️oys who might be interested 
willapted33 jtd Thee Stallion  crazyb

[willapted33]

I'd like a permanent tag please, also Sherane got permabanned

[filthy]

Years & Years - ''Palo Santo''


British synthpop band ’’Years & Years’’ released their second studio album on June 6, 2018. It was received with surprisingly good reviews from critics, and I decided to check this one out, because I thoroughly enjoyed their previous album. The album is about sex. Or more specifically about the lead singer’s, Olly Alexander, sexuality. ‘’Palo Santo’’ tells a story of a young gay man and his experiences with heteros and the s**t they do when they just want to use gays for sex.


1. Sanctify 8/10
‘’Sanctify’’ is a great way to start this record. It’s not an intro and doesn’t set a mood for what’s about to come, but what Olly Alexander talks about in this song is what matters. He was inspired by his own encounters with homosexual men, like himself, who was afraid of admitting their sexuality. He’s trying to say, that people like those, should embrace their sexuality and be proud about it. Aside from the lyrics, the song has great production value, and a solid beat.

2. Hallelujah 6/10
The second track is all about Olly Alexander’s lover. It’s somebody he has lost his mind to; it’s a basic song lyrics-wise. It’s a simple and fun dance/club track, that is sure to get you going. There’s a fun and uplifted beat and Alexander’s vocal are on point on this one.

3. All For You 6,5/10
The lyrics in this song are a little misleading. We don’t know who Alexander is singing about. Though, there is a very clever reference to Adam and Eve; the reference goes hand in hand with the homosexual topic, and about being ashamed of who you truly are. ‘’love's a bitter fruit if you choose to remain in your shame’’ The song has a great beat and is alright.

4. Karma 5,5/10
‘’Karma’’ is the only explicit song on the album. The only interesting thing about this song is the pre-chorus; very catchy and it’s a possible reference to homophobic parents/peers. He wants people to know that he’s proud of being gay and all the hate he has experienced only made him stronger. Other than that, it’s a very bland track with nothing special about it.

5. Hypnotised 6,5/10
Standout track ‘’Hypnotised’’ is about falling head over heels for somebody and it totally up-ends everything you thought you knew about yourself. The homosexual topic is nowhere to be found on this song, it’s a generic love song. Definitely not bad, Alexander has some beautiful vocals on this one.

6. Rendezvous 4/10
This song shouts out to a guy who Olly had a physical relationship with rather than an emotional one and wonders how he is ever going to move on from what they had. Not gonna lie, the lyrics, Alexander’s vocals, and the beat is disappointing. Not a fan of this.

7. If You’re Over Me 7,5/10
‘’If You’re Over Me’’ is the second single of Years & Years’ sophomore project. It’s a song about staying friends with an ex, and to let go. It has a great and fun rhythm, with a heavy bass that really lifts the song.

8. Preacher 7/10
On the first track of the second half of the album, Alexander is ‘’preaching’’ about his lover to come out. His lover is afraid to come out as homosexual. Jesse Shatkin did an amazing job with this one; he’s pretty much the reason why this song exists. He co-wrote it with Olly Alexander, and composed it almost entirely on his own. Solid song.

9. Lucky Escape 6/10
‘‘Lucky Escape’’ is about an abandoned relationship. The partner in the relationship was manipulative in many ways, one of which is he never divulges his true desires for the relationship. The song is quite contrary to the rest of the album; you perceive an R&B sentiment, and it’s definitely not a song that you’re going to dance to. It’s different, but not bad.

10. Palo Santo 8,5/10
In the title track, we kind of sense that Olly Alexander has had a meaningful relationship, that was destroyed because of a uncertainty about coming out. Saying that ‘’You’re the darkness in me’’, reveals that he knew the relationship was toxic all along. The title track of any album shouldn’t disappoint, and this one fails to do that as well. It has an overwhelmingly good production and is very well contemplated.

11. Here 4/10
I don’t get this one. It’s only 1:40, and feels very unnecessary. Alexander talks about that he’s moved on, which is a topic referred to in almost every song on the album. It’s boring, generic, and again unnecessary.

12. Howl 5/10
‘’Howl’’ is also a weird one. Alexander is lost and howling for help. He’s apparently regretting that relationship now? Either that or ‘’howl’’ should be interpreted as ‘howling’ as being afraid of coming out and being lost about one’s sexuality. It has a retro beat, with a production I’m not too fond of.

13. Don’t Panic 5/10
‘’Don’t Panic’’ is about having anxiety about coming out, and that you’ll have to ‘’stand your ground’’, ‘’don’t panic’’, and believe in yourself. Alexander’s vocals are a little edgy on this one, and the chorus is just… meh. It’s actually kind of annoying. The rest of the song is fine though, with a more tropical/house beat.

14. Up In Flames 6/10
As far as I understand, this song is about Alexander’s childhood and his parent’s divorce when he was 14 years old. He wants his past to ‘’go up in flames’’ and just forget about it. Just like he wants to do with that relationship of his. I don’t know why, but I feel a heavy 80’s groove on this one. It’s a fun beat for sure, but nothing special.

In conclusion: What I’ve found interesting about numerous songs on the record, is the repetitiveness. There’s a bunch of ‘’oohs’’ and ‘’I-I-I’s’'. It’s almost like they felt like they were missing something and then added these random ‘’ad-libs’’. It doesn’t feel incomplete, but unnecessary. The production was the best aspect of this album; it created a heavy atmosphere that made the whole project a bit more interesting.



6/10

willapted33

[filthy]

willapted33 I'm sorry this wasn't an urban review, but I'm considering either DAMN. or *blonde* next, unless you have any suggestions.

[willapted33]

Jul 12, 2018 16:27:25 GMT -5 filthy said:

willapted33 I'm sorry this wasn't an urban review, but I'm considering either DAMN. or *blonde* next, unless you have any suggestions.

I can PM you a list of urban albums I recommend if you want ? Also, I don't really care what genre you review.

[filthy]

Jul 12, 2018 18:48:42 GMT -5 willapted33 said:

Jul 12, 2018 16:27:25 GMT -5 filthy said:

willapted33 I'm sorry this wasn't an urban review, but I'm considering either DAMN. or *blonde* next, unless you have any suggestions.

I can PM you a list of urban albums I recommend if you want ? Also, I don't really care what genre you review.

That’d be great! I reckoned you didn’t care about the genre, just had to throw it out there

[filthy]

Kendrick Lamar - ''DAMN.''

Very critically acclaimed ‘’DAMN.’’ was one of my favorite albums last year. It’s the third major album release from Kendrick Lamar, which regards the life as a modern African-American in the US. Kendrick explores the dark sides to his new life after he had reached the top of the hip-hop world. This is Kendrick's struggle with betrayed feelings as a consequence of his success. He literally forces himself to be more humble and grateful, and not to be cocky because of his success despite the negative feelings. DAMN. is his reaction to his life after the effects of ‘’To Pimp A Butterfly’’, no matter how positive or negative it was. 

1. BLOOD. 

On “BLOOD.,” Kendrick is shot by a blind lady he’s trying to help. The blind woman can be thought of as representing consequences of the damnation referenced in the Book of Deuteronomy. The duality of obeying God and being blessed, or disobeying him and being damned—giving into “wickedness” or admitting your “weaknesses” and submitting yourself to God—play a major role throughout the album. This can be thought of as an Interlude or an intro; therefore, I won’t be giving this a rating.  

2. DNA. 9,25/10 

On ‘’DNA’’ Kendrick looks and explores his black heritage and culture from different viewpoints. Produced by Mike WiLL Made-It, it provides a heavy and uplifting beat, filled with bars from Kendrick. He talks about not only his history, but also the history of the blacks; saying that he got power, poison, pain, and joy (etc.) in his DNA provides a feeling of empowerment in the first verse, whilst speaking to the industry and corruption within Hollywood in the second. 

3. YAH. 8,5/10 

On this religious-themed track we can assume that “Yah” is referring to “Yahuah"—another name for God. Like the two previous songs, this song references the FOX News segment that criticized his “Alright” performance at the 2015 BET Awards. This time, however, Kendrick goes one step further and directly calls out reporter Geraldo Rivera. The chorus is all about a buzzing radar; Kendrick uses the radar as a metaphor for his awareness. He’s aware that women just want him for his money and that FOX News talks about him. 

4. ELEMENT. 9/10 

‘’ELEMENT.’’ Is a song about Kendrick being the most dominant rapper in the game; Kendrick delves into his personal journey of self-sacrifice and family tribulations that has so far accumulated in his life; how the struggles his family and himself have endured have influenced & carried him to where he stands today: at the top of the game. I’m very fond of the music video, which references to legendary filmmaker Gordon Parks, who displayed ‘’the black experience’’ in his catalogs and movies. The power of his photography, is that it forces people to see, what would otherwise remain invisible. 

5. FEEL. 8/10 

On “FEEL.,” Kendrick catalogs the wide range of feelings, particularly the negative ones, that his stardom has elicited. Kendrick is almost depressed on this track; He feels like nobody is looking out for him, yet cites a strong desire to isolate himself from friends and family. He boasts about his status in music, but notes that the very same industry that he dominates is full of toxicity.  

6. LOYALTY. 9/10 

This song is Kendrick and Rihanna musing on the value and the must of loyalty and honesty in both platonic and romantic relationships. In the outro, Rihanna references the struggle of staying humble within success, which may be a nod to the first single from this album, “HUMBLE.” The sample of Bruno Mars’ ‘’24K Magic’’ is the heart of this song; the entire production is built around it and it turned out really great. 

7. PRIDE. 8/10 

‘’PRIDE’’ continues the religious theme on the album; Kendrick delves deep into his own pride and his recognition as one of the best rappers alive causing tension between his ideals and his actions. The vocal pitch varies from high to low throughout the song, which reflects the contrast between his ideals and his actions. Pride is often considered the original and most serious of the seven deadly sins. It is the direct perversion of the humility that makes humans more God-like. 

8. HUMBLE. 9,5/10 

Kendrick makes it ''personal’’ on ‘’HUMBLE.’’ Not only is he challenging his competition, but he’s also telling himself to be humbler and to not let his expectations of himself to run out of hand, despite being recognized as one of the best rappers. The song has a very in-your-face beat and rapid lyrics. Accompanied by an astonishing video, this was the first single off ‘’DAMN.’’. 

9. LUST. 9,5/10 

“LUST.” is Kendrick’s perspective on the repetitive lifestyle of a “rap star.” Centered around themes of sexual intimacy, Dot explores the monotonous routine of daily life for those with fame and wealth that often involves lust of all forms. In the second verse, Kendrick self-reflectivity highlights the unquenchable lust people in his position have for luxury, whether it’s unlimited sex, the ability to party with no consequence or relief from financial burden. I love the lyrics in this one, and Kendrick’s flow is mesmerizing. 

10. LOVE. 10/10 

This song is about Kendrick musing about the woman in his life. He also explores modern relationships, saying that ''lust’’ is the bedrock for most of them these days. We only want the physical and sexual desires. Zacari delivers an incredible chorus and the song’s production is stunningly good. 

11. XXX. 10/10 

Kendrick begins to question the hypocratic ways of America and continues the religious theme on the album; In the first verse, Kendrick begins by addressing moral ambiguity, noting that even the best of us are capable of evil if the conditions are right. Kendrick brags about his accomplishments on the streets before a friend calls him for advice on the devastating death of his son—the usually-meditative Kendrick pushes him to take violent revenge. The second verse provides the worldly context for this violence, continuing the nihilistic themes from “PRIDE.”  

12. FEAR. 7,5/10 

''FEAR.’’ Might be very good lyrically, but musically it’s a no. Kendrick explores true terrors he has experienced at ages 7, 17, and 27 respectively. Kendrick is reminiscing about his fears, not only his lack of self-confidence and his anxiety we experienced on ‘’To Pimp A Butterfly’’, but also the fear of dying a young man on the streets.    

13. GOD. 9/10 

On “GOD.”, Kendrick flaunts his successes, how it feels, and why he works so hard. Throughout the track, Kendrick compares the sensation to “what God feels like.” Once again, he’s challenging his competition; In a sense, he’s reminding other rappers who see themselves as God that they’re not in charge, he is. The song has a fun beat, and it’s just a great bop overall. 

14. DUCKWORTH. 10/10 

“DUCKWORTH.” is a story from the streets about how Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith had planned to rob a local KFC where Kendrick’s father, Ducky, was working. The robbery could have resulted in Ducky’s death, but his generosity caused Top Dawg to refrain from committing the robbery. This happened many years before Top Dawg would coincidentally sign a 15-year-old Kendrick to his label Top Dawg Entertainment. The entire album ends with Kendrick being shot. Reversed audio can be heard meanwhile. The reversed audio symbolizes a flashback or a wormhole representing Kendrick’s life—both past and present, flashing by him as he dies. It’s also a clue to listen to the album in reverse order for an alternate storyline. This is the best song on the album, and perhaps – the best song Kendrick has ever written. 

There’s too much to say about this album to give it a conclusion, except for it being a piece of art. 

9,5/10  

willapted33

[willapted33]

great review !

[YotamTS]

tag me as well for your next reviews

[filthy]

Joey Bada$$ - ’’1999’’

’’1999’’ is the debut mixtape from Joey Bada$$, released on June 12, 2012. The project had a very different sound from other hip-hop projects during the time; it has an old-school sound much similar to the golden age of hip-hop. I had to put my expectations for this mixtape aside, because this was his first project, and was before he was established enough to make the stuff he does today.

1. Summer Knights 7/10
Joey is reminiscing about his earlier life, celebrating that he finally made it, and is proudly looking forward to what is to come. Joey also makes numerous references to classic hip-hop songs from the golden age, which is the period he got his inspiration from.

2. Waves 8/10
On ''Waves’’ Joey wants to let the public know he’s there to stay; not only him, but also his mother has worked hard in their life, and finally deserves the success that Joey was currently receiving at the time. He won’t stop rapping until he has accomplished everything. He also looks forward to his life after his professional career; he wants to teach the three kids he desires, to not make the same mistakes he did when he was younger.

3. FromdaTomb$ 7,5/10
The third track off of 1999 features a verse from Chuck Strangers. Joey Bada$$ covers a lot of topics, particularly his dislike for school, as verse 3 is entirely dedicated to it. It’s a weird song, as Joey isn’t really focusing on anything particular. Nonetheless, it has a fun beat and both rappers have a great flow.

4. Survival Tactics 8.5/10
The main theme on ''Survival Tactics’’ is ''survival of the fittest.’’ Joey and Steez (RIP) are rapping about them being on the top of the game. They’re also reminiscing about their life in the hood and on the streets respectively. Yet again, Joey are ''borrowing’’ flows from older rappers, to compliment the old boom-bap-style that this album is themed around.

5. Killuminati 6/10
Joey and STEEZ trades relentless flows while showing their love for wordplay and discussing their journey to put Pro Era on the map. I’ve kind of begun to understand Joey’s direction with this album. He’s more conscious about honoring classic rappers and implying clever lines and verses, rather than writing deep lyrics as seen on his later albums. This is a weird song; it has a diverse beat and the rappers’ flows aren’t as good as the other songs.

6. Hardknock 6,5/10
This song epitomizes the amount of talent in the Pro Era posse. Joey goes in. CJ Fly goes in. Joey strives for bigger things in life, but the way he’s currently living will prevent him from reaching those goals. He’s humbler on this track than the others, as he says he’s nothing special and only a regular kid on the block who smokes a lot. The song samples Lewis Parkers’ ''Eyes Of Dreams’’ and was very well produced.

7. World Domination 9,5/10
The beat on the seventh song is dreamy; it’s a mixmash of numerous samples. Joey continues his journey to become the best. His opponents are ignorant and are looking at him like he’s a ''new boy’’ in the rap game. But Joey proves all his doubters wrong, in this exciting track.

8. Pennyroyal 7/10
Joey reminisces over a girl who he missed his chance with, the times they had, and how he feels now. His flow is great, and the beat is (just like every other song thus far) dreamy.

9. Funky Ho’$ 8,5/10
''I don’t trust these bitches, they will never catch me slippin’’, might be a very repetitive line in this song, but joey utilizes this ''stolen'' bar from Drake, just perfectly. ''Funky Ho’$’’ is fun, catchy, and Joey’s flow is outstanding. I really like this.

10. Daily Routine 9/10
‘'Daily Routine’’ might be the deepest song on this mixtape. Joey reminisces about his high school life; how he was broke and that no one wanted to talk with him, contrary to now where everybody is trying to get a piece of his success. He’s trying to warn us about who we hang around with. Joey is saying that if you walk around in the wrong hood looking flashy, you’re probably going to be robbed for someone else’s desires.

11. Snakes 6,75/10
Joey is shading certain people without calling out any names. He feels betrayed, not only in his personal circle, but also domestically. He feels that he’s like an outcast because he isn’t extremely popular, and the content of his lyrics are different from what you typically hear on the radio. ''Snakes’’ has a catchy chorus, sung by T’nah Apex, and a dreamy beat.

12. Don’t Front 7/10
Joey sings about young love with a woman and his adventures with her, both good and bad. A hidden double meaning to the song can be revealed by examining not Joey’s love for a woman, but for marijuana. CJ Fly and Joey are really good together, and their flows are on point.

13. Righteous Minds 9,5/10
Joey feels betrayed yet again; he’s struggling living life as a good man, when there’s so many people ready to stab him in the back. Even if not talking about murder, everybody, even your closest friends, have a price that they would abandon you for. He makes a clever reference to the racial Jim Crow Laws; He’s stating here that no matter how much the government tries to block out or cover up its racist policies of the past, he’ll never forget, and neither should we.

14. Where it’$ At? 6,5/10
As seen a lot on this album, Joey is attempting to break through to the mainstream rap. He’s trying to locate ''where it’s at’’ and ultimately conquering whatever it is. Probably the top of the game. I’m not really a fan of the chorus, it’s not bad but just not as catchy as other songs on this project.

15. Suspect/Third Eye Sh*t 5,5/10
This song, based on Nas’ ''Suspect’’ on his sophomore album, is very similar to FromdaTomb$; it feels like a reunion for Pro Era, as they, on turns, spit bars. There’s no specific topic in this song, they’re rapping about weed, their journey to the top, and making cultural and musical references. The chorus is kinda annoying, because they all rap simultaneously, with some of them being off. It’s still a great song nonetheless.

In Conclusion: Joey wants to let his competition know, that he’s there to stay. And so, he proved in 2017 when he released the outstanding album ''ALL-AMERIKKKAN BADA$$.’’ I realized while examining this mixtape, that most of these songs’ beats are almost identical to other classic hip-hop songs, which was, of course, the feeling he attempted to create with this album: a golden age hip-hop vibe. And in my opinion, he definitely succeeded.

7,5/10

willapted33 YotamTS

[filthy]

Jean Grae, Quelle Chris - ''Everything's Fine''


requested by: singingrulebritannia

‘’Everything’s Fine’’ is a satirical collaborative album by American rappers Jean Grae and Quelle Chris. The main themes of the album are complacency and stereotypes. It draws influence from many musical genres including jazz and dream pop. Released on March 30, 2018, this album got lots of attention for its dark humor and controversial songs.

1. Everything’s Fine
The album starts off with the title track, a puzzling intro for what’s about to come on this album. The scene is set in a fictional TV-show, where the only right answer is ''Everything’s Fine.’’ (skits/interludes on this project will be given an overall rating)

2. My Contribution to This Scam 7,5/10
This track features the duo’s cynical, dry sense of humor. They shed light on their views on stereotypes and hive-mind mentalities, as well a wide range of other topics which they find reprehensible. The production and the beat are a little meh, but their clever verses and flows makes up for that.

3. Ohsh 7,25/10
The rappers make a bunch of fun references to other famous artists/celebrities. Most notably Chris Christie, a 2016 Republican presidential candidate; Christie’s weight has been joked with by many people, among them Donald Trump. This is the first political innuendo thus far. This song is more enjoyable musically than the previous, but not as good lyrically.

4. House Call 4/10
Just like the other songs, I’m having some hard times understanding this one. There’s no topic on this song, just more random references; the title doesn’t even match up with the rest of the song, except for the chorus, which is horrible. Quelle does have some good flows though.

5. Don’t Worry It’s Fine
The fifth track is a skit/interlude. It’s a short story about how ''everything is fine.’’ I’ve interpreted it like, someone is denying the truth; they’re too scared to tell what’s really going on and what’s frightening them, and therefore ''everything is just fine.’’

6. Gold Purple Orange 9/10
''Gold Purple Orange’’ is a good one. The rappers are really exemplifying their attitude on stereotypes. Chris gives us examples of prejudice and stereotypes from media that aren’t necessarily true. Sometimes, insecurities can cause people to force themselves into certain behaviors that fit said stereotypes simply because they want to meet the expectations of the community or society. It’s a tragic progress because it restrains people from being themselves. Incredible lyrics, good instrumentals, and a great song overall.

7. Peacock 8,5/10
The focus on self-identity and stereotypes continues: they proceed with their fun rhymes and lyrics, but are also letting us know, that we are free to be whoever we want to be. We shouldn’t let anyone hold us back or tell us what to do. It’s OUR life.

8. Doing Better Than Ever
Yet another skit. It’s about the feature, Dapwell, who’s on the phone with his mother, who is indecipherably talking about a plethora of gossip-worthy topics. Dapwell isn’t paying attention to what she’s saying, and just responds with ''That’s Wild!’’ It’s deep considering that’s how people treat each other nowadays; like they don’t matter, no matter who they are.

9. The Smoking Man 6,5/10
This track is about how we react to the modern world’s stereotypes. More references e.g. to the 1988 film ''They Live’’ which shares almost the same topic as this song; the mind-controlling and subliminal messages behind everything. Great lyrics, not so great musically.

10. Breakfast of Champions 8,5/10
This track describes the racial violence in America today, specifically referencing police shootings. The song speaks to the amount of physical and emotional trauma black Americans go through on a daily basis through merely watching the news or walking outside. It has a pleasing baseline and nice instrumentals.

11. Scoop if Dirt 4,5/10
I feel like this song was made just for the heck of it; there’s no meaning to it, at least not as I understand, except for maybe their continuously hate against stereotypes. It’s fun – definitely – but other than that, it’s just not good.

12. Zero 7,5/10
on ''Zero’’ the rappers are discussing numerous topic. E.g. how everybody is focusing on the outcome instead of the work. As they mention ''everybody'', they are talking about every person, and therefore yet again stereotypes. This is the first track, where they are showing a little bit of superiority or haughtiness, by telling everybody that they have ''zero’’ f*cks to give.

13. Everything’s Still Fine
The fourth and final skit digs a little deeper to what the rappers mean by ''everything’s fine.’’ If there are severe issues in the world that don’t affect you, you should just let them be. Because everything is fine. Everything is going to be fine. But obviously it’s not. And those are the stereotypes, that Jean and Quelle really loathe.

14. Waiting for the Moon 9,5/10
The 14th track becomes really personal. By saying that ''everybody is waiting for the moon to come around’’ they’re continuing the topic from the previous track: how there’re problems in the world that nobody cares about, because everything is fine and that is also going to be fine. This song is not only emotional but also very enjoyable.

15. River 10/10
''River’’ is also very personal. I didn’t quite understand it at first, but the ending made me realize; both Jean and Quelle have had dysfunctional childhoods and have experienced some harsh stuff. They had to jump on the bandwagon and say ''everything’s fine’’ to themselves so that they didn’t break. And now that they’re older and wiser, they’re letting us know that everything isn’t fine, and by jumping on the bandwagon will take away our freedom and ultimately change the person we are to become. Amazing ending to this project.

Skits/interludes 10/10
The skits were very good, especially the last two. They were deep, spot-on, and very well written. They help us understand the message on this album, by ''foreshadowing'' what’s about to come and twisting the way we interpreted the preceding tracks.

In conclusion:
The ‘’Everything’s Fine’’ phrase was clearly meant to be satirical. We are hiding behind our respective facades and saying that everything’s fine to avoid the truth. I like the idea of how we’re all bound to a certain stereotype, but we must break through the barrier and live our own lives. The biggest stereotype of them all being: ''everything’s fine.''

8/10

YotamTS willapted33 singingrulebritannia