Monica

From harlanworldI'm late... but we gotta do it. This album is too topical and too polarizing to not run this through. I enjoy an artistic pivot. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn't. But we are here for the trajectory and evolution of artistry, not creative sameness. On some basic level, you have to respect the courage it takes. I'd say this record generally passes the ZERO SKIPS filter. It's a good play straight through. Maybe you've seen all the memes (hard not to). Maybe you listened to the full NYT interview on Popcast. Yes, Kangols and early-aughts Common fits are too far. BUT for the product of the music, the craft of the album is surprisingly nice. A mellow and vibey Neo-Soul-inspired sound. Dinner cooking music. Live instrumentation at Electric Lady studios, Robert Glasper as producer collaborator. I see both sides of the narrative, but I can respect the expression. Sound up for the listen, and sound off in the comments (I am genuinely interested in others' takes).