A lot of great music was released recently. Chris Brown's awaited album "Heartbreak On A Full Moon", released yesterday. There were multiple unannounced projects that released as well. Last night, Offset and 21 Savage collaborated on an album titled, "Without Warning." Today, Kodak Black and Plies released a mixtape together called, "F.E.M.A." These projects give multiple unique and different sounds. I'm going to go through each project and discuss strengths and weaknesses.
'Heartbreak On a Full Moon'
Chris Brown is a very talented artist. One of the best singers of his generation, he does not disappoint his fans in terms of performance.
This album features an astounding 45 songs and, through what I've listened to so far, his singing ability has not faltered. Despite personal issues, Chris Brown has always given his full effort in music. Some of my favorite songs so far are "High End" featuring Future and Young Thug, "Pills and Automobiles" featuring Kodak Black, Yo Gotti, and A Boogie wit da Hoodie, and "Only 4 Me" featuring Ty Dolla $ign and Verse Simmonds.
While having 45 songs on an album is impressive, there is a downside as well. The overall sound of the album becomes repetitive. Many critics argue that although Chris Brown is talented, his music lacks progression and versatility. In this album that critique is apparent.
Many of the songs sound similar and, it becomes less enjoyable.
'Without Warning'
21 Savage and Offset's ironically-named album, "Without Warning", was announced yesterday and released later that day. Produced by Metro Boomin, this album gives a gritty street vibe with great instrumentals to supplement 21 Savage and Offset trading verses.
10 songs with features such as Travis Scott and Quavo, "Without Warning" was the unexpected collaboration that turned out decent.
As much as I love 21 Savage and Offset as separate artists, I don't believe collaborating on a project was the best decision. 21 Savage raps in a slow tempo and calm manner while Offset raps faster, louder, and with more audible ad-libs.
The combination worked overall in the project but there were times when the flow was off between the two rappers.
'F.E.M.A.'
Florida legend Plies and trending Florida artist Kodak Black surprised fans with the release of the joint mixtape, "F.E.M.A." Kodak Black dropped music prior with his singles "Halloween" and "Snap Sh*t", leaving the fans wanting more. He delivered with a full mixtape. Arguably the best artist from his XXL Freshman class, it is great seeing Kodak Black focus on music rather than draw attention to himself on social media. It is also good to see legends like Plies make music again, especially with the new generation of rappers.
From the two out of ten songs I've heard, "Real Hittas" and "Still Got Luv Fa Ya", I have concerns about the entire album.
I believe that Plies is out of his prime and, the project might be carried by Kodak Black. In those two songs, I didn't enjoy Plies' verses. Hopefully, not all of the songs will be like that but, it is possible.
