The popular artist Freddie Gibbs released a sequel to his most popular album, “Alfredo” on July 25th. Racking up upwards of six million listens on the 1st day of release according to Last.fm, its popularity has not gone unnoticed. Listeners have had mixed opinions about it, but personally I believe it’s one of if not the best album he has put out.
The album consists of 14 songs, spanning 47 minutes and 48 seconds. Saying this album had no bad songs would be an understatement. Personally, all of these songs are perfect, when listening there is never a dull note and every chord is a blessing to be able to hear.
It opens with “1995,” a five minute masterpiece and sequel to the popular “1985” from the original album “Alfredo”. I think it’s only appropriate for an opening song for such an album to be made with an original beat from his producer, The Alchemist.
Moving on to one of my favorites, “Lavish Habits.” I like how Gibbs’ use of guitar works to frustration and anger. In his lyrics, he talks about other rappers who have angered him, raps on how they snitched, dissed, and back stabbed him. Freddie emphasizes how he has lavish habits, hence the name, in which his fame and success led him to making bad decisions enduring a successful lifestyle.
Continuing the trend of favorites, I can’t go without mentioning “Gas Station Sushi.” Listeners have noted its original beat, uniqueness, and flow. It uses high notes often in order to convey an upbeat and inspirational form of story telling. He talks about never backing down and not letting age stop him.
“Uh, fell back but never fell down (Uh) / Condo, sunny isles, drop the scale, but never scaled down,” Freddie Gibbs says in his lyrics.
Personally, this is my second favorite behind “Lavish Habits” because of the amount of double entendres. His use of these makes me believe he might be one of the best rappers in terms of story telling.
I think that this is the best album this year so far. Its use of unique beats and other worldly story telling is something I’ve only heard from one other artist, Count Bass D. If this is a style you would enjoy then please check him out as well. But, otherwise give this album a listen if you get a chance, it is personally one of my favorite albums.
