By Ian Lockwood
Arts Editor
Indiana based rapper, Freddie Gibbs, returns to the rap scene with his emotional 3rd studio album, “You Only Live 2wice.”
Gibbs impresses listeners with a powerful collection of an emotional narrative, thought provoking artwork, and remarkable instrumentals. Although the album is for the most part enjoyable Gibbs’ lack of pronunciation makes the album somewhat hard to listen to.
LINK: Check out “You Only Live 2wice” on Spotify
Freddie Gibbs is a well known rapper from Indiana who gained fame after his last two studio albums, “Shadow of a Doubt,” and “Piñata.” Gibbs is also known for his prior work with rappers such as A$AP Ferg, Madlibs, and Young Thug.
The rapper’s newest album, “You Only Live 2wice,” was released on March 31, 2017 and was released through Empire Distribution. He worked with younger producers such as jazz trio BADBADNOTGOOD, Kaytranada, and Teddy Walton.
PHOTOS: Gibbs impresses with new studio album
From start to end, Gibbs tells a moving narrative about his experience coming out of jail and returning home to his family, friends, and music career. The last track, “Homesick,” it is clearly expressed his struggle of not being able to be with his family while being under arrest. The addition of this narrative allows the reader to connect on an emotional level with the rapper.
The album’s artwork resembles the scene of Jesus’ resurrection but with Gibbs as Jesus and various additions to represent pop culture. The stunning artwork seems to represents Gibb’s resurrection in the music industry, since he has not released new music since 2015.
The latter half of the album experiences a change of pace in not only the instrumentals but in the rapper’s vocals. The change of tempo on the tracks such as “Andrea,” and “Phone Lit,” provides the listener with Gibbs’ deeper emotions and brings a sentimental atmosphere.
The downfall of the album is Gibbs’ lack of pronunciation of lyrics throughout the tracks. Most notably on the track “Crushed Glass,” the rapper mumbles and makes the track irritable and a hard listen. Although the lack of pronunciation on few of the tracks is annoying, overall the album still maintains an enjoyable atmosphere.
LINK: Gibbs provides information on writing his new album from prison
Rapper, Freddie Gibbs, returns with an utmost impressive and emotional album. The album impresses listeners with a poignant story, unique artwork, and interesting chances of tempo, but lacks clear vocals making the album somewhat tedious to listen to.
“You Only Live 2wice” by Freddie Gibbs is available for streaming through Apple Music and Spotify or for $6.99 on Itunes.
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