Imogen Lawlor

After a long wait and much anticipation from the trio, Culture III from Migos has finally been released, completing their Culture album trilogy.  While Culture III from offers some refreshing summertime sounds and a strong sense of atmosphere, this appeal is not enough to hold one’s engagement across the 19 tracks. The trio quickly descend into, and become dependent upon, … [Read more...] about Migos: Culture III – Album Review

Smoke DZA is known for being a prolific battle rapper, ghostwriter and collaborator, all of which are evident on his latest release: The Hustler’s Catalog 2.  Amongst the dense lyricism and extensive collaborations is the core aim to represent East Coast rap in new, multifaceted ways. Driven by a desire to move beyond the “weed rapper” label, DZA expands his East Coast heavy … [Read more...] about Smoke DZA: The Hustler’s Catalog 2

It’s hard to know where to begin with J. Cole’s new album, given that The Off-Season is one of the most highly anticipated hip hop releases of 2021.  tadalafil online According to Cole, it was “years in the making”. It might even be the last album he ever releases according to some rumours. In any case, J. Cole is, and always will be, an extraordinary rapper and this … [Read more...] about J.Cole: The Off-Season – Album Review

There is not one bad track nor bad thing I can say about the new dodie album, Build A Problem. It is beautiful and perfectly imperfect.  It’s the kind of album to which one can listen sat completely still, dwelling on thoughts and feelings you didn’t even know you had. It is an album driven by a strong sense of unique sound and extraordinary lyricism; with neither being … [Read more...] about dodie: Build A Problem – Album Review

Back with his second studio album, Rag’n’Bone Man has set himself a great challenge with Life By Misadventure given that his previous album, Human, was an enormous success. Travelling to Nashville to record the record before the pandemic hit, this release provides new, fresh dimensions to his artistry whilst not forgetting his signature soulful sound. Packed with warmth and … [Read more...] about Rag’n’Bone Man: Life By Misadventure – Review

Moneybagg Yo uses his latest album, A Gangsta’s Pain, to translate his life story and present Memphis rap to the world.  While there is some attempt to emphasise on ‘sonic diversity’, at times Moneybagg Yo falls short regarding originality. Instead of presenting a journey of knowledge and understanding, this 22-track album has the tendency to get lost in translation and … [Read more...] about Moneybagg Yo: A Gangsta’s Pain – Review