On the outstanding good EP "Fear of God II" now follows finally the first proper solo album. And that has it all. The album is the logical consequence of the hard-boiled sound, for the Pusha T and his brother Malice had known until then, and the influence of the new label home, under the wing of Kanye West. However, the latter manifests itself in more subtle nuances: Here is an Autotune Hook, times when a suspicious kanyeske sound aesthetics. Nevertheless Pusha gives the impression of not wanting to emulate the new boss: On the contrary. No experiments, no world musicians posturing. Instead, their own superiority is proclaimed, analyzing one's own life as a drug seller and referenced one or the other pop-cultural event on 12 tracks in his usual dry, callous way. Thematically nothing new. Nevertheless Pusha scores with complex lyrics full of unusual metaphors, autobiographical anecdotes and a frightening look. About a total cycle time of approximately 47 minutes to the trip pours into the world of a filthy rich, icy criminal. An acoustic counterpart to Mafia-classics like "Scarface" and "The Sopranos". The genius of the texts reveals itself in some cases only when viewed using Rap Genius individual lines precisely to recognize relationships between metaphors and slang expressions.
The matching soundscape is provided by a whole host of qualified producer: Kanye West, Pharrell Williams, Hudson Mohawke, Nottz, Don Cannon are just some of the names that stand Credits eye between the song. Nevertheless, the sound of the album is very consistent and round: Minimalist instrumentals, simple drum loops with many loving details, organic samples and electronic synths close to the sound of the previous EP on. In between there are all kinds of loving gimmicks. (About the quality of the background vocals from Kanye in "Hold On", one may however argue.) Similar to already "Hell Hath No Fury" also has "My Name Is My Name" Such a spectacular nuclear sphere that each feature guest degenerates into a supporting actor , Fortunately, most are already responsible only for the rustle of a refrain. Only Rick Ross and Kendrick Lamar embark during their verses briefly with Pusha T on an equal footing. Otherwise, the album remains an impressive one-man show.
Criticisms I can not find - the album is what I hoped for. Although I doubt that it will pave the way in a great solo career Pusha T, particularly because mass appeal, it is not. Precisely for this reason, however, this record is one of the few hip-hop highlights of 2013, which should necessarily walk in any record collection. Unrestricted buy recommendation.
