Kendrick Lamar “GNX” review

The duality in Kendrick Lamar’s catalog is even more prevalent in his more recent work. His albums, from “Section.80” to “Mr. Morale” and “The Big Steppers,” often explore the cause and effect of his surroundings. Good boy mAAd city details his upbringing in Compton and the things he witnessed and experienced that shaped his character. On the other hand, he delves into survivor’s remorse just as Butterfly’s star power shines across the globe. Through these albums and others, the essence of the West Coast continues to seep into every project. However, the influence of Los Angeles is most evident on his sixth studio album, GNX. After a triumphant summer in which Kendrick Lamar unified the streets of Compton and single-handedly changed perceptions of hip-hop’s biggest stars, GNX returns to celebrate L.A.’s past , present and future stages.

Let’s be clear first, though: GNX isn’t a triumph, nor is he entirely committed to revenge for his feud with Drake, though that energy can be felt in every song. More than anything, the album ushered in a new era for Kendrick Lamar, one in which critical acclaim and volume were secondary to his creative vision, especially as a His first post-TDE project under pgLang. With that in mind, the album starts off by giving a middle finger to the industry and his doubters. The sparse horns and glitchy synths of “Mural” serve as a canvas for Kendrick to release the tension that built into the narrative in the months following his victory over Drake and those seeking to tarnish his legacy. Here’s a broader picture of the feud’s potential fallout. a rebuttal to his critics; and an announcement of his coveted status at the top of the food chain. Sonically and thematically, “Wacced Out Murals” is both thrilling and cathartic, from Snoop Dogg’s co-sign on “Taylor Made Freestyle” to the accusations of “6:16 In LA” to Lil Wayne’s take on the flop. Natural reaction, everything ties together for the Super Bowl halftime show. Although he has always shown love to those who came before him, in this moment he forces a shift in the dynamic between himself and those who have influenced him.

Still, the heart of the album can be best summed up by a line from the intro: “F*ck puns, I hope y’all can relate to that.” There are enough puns in there to keep you thinking, though. , but GNX largely carries over the vibe he created with this summer’s “Not Like Us.” The much-anticipated “squabble up” clip from the “Not Like Us” music video excels in every way and is perhaps one of the few clips in hip-hop history that lives up to the hype. It’s a vibrant and animated West Coast song that connects its current form to dance music, something you might hear Snowfall’s Skully listen to on an Angel Dust tour, and the West Coast’s rich musical tapestry, which is “When I Hear” sample music credited to Debbie Deb. Likewise, “Hey Now” ft. Dody6 instantly stands out as it transforms shell and bass production into a sinister dance track and pays homage to D4L’s “Scotty.”

Although the album departs from Kendrick’s usual notions of drama, it doesn’t lack storytelling qualities. “Reincarnation” is a masterclass in storytelling, deftly channeling Tupac Shakur’s beats while detailing the devil’s story through three musicians. And then there’s the closing “Gloria,” a nod to “I Used to Love Her” that personifies Kendrick’s women. Ultimately, GNX is a hybrid that encompasses diversity without losing its cohesion. These records, along with “Luther” ft. SZA (also featured on “Gloria”) and “Dodger Blue,” offer rich soundscapes and mellow melodies that permeate the album’s raucous production.

While there are many ways to dissect this album, its most important characteristic is its commitment to elevating the West and continuing tradition. The ecosystem of the Los Angeles rap scene is large and complex, filled with street politics, especially when emerging talent across the city starts making waves. The addition of artists like Lefty Gunplay and Deyra Barrera underscored the theme of West Coast unity, especially among black people, with their four-word outro like Kendrick’s new song for DJ Mustard on “TV Off.” Refreshing.

As Kendrick Lamar enters a new chapter in his career, he’s making sure to tie up any loose ends. “Heart pt.” “6” — a satirical take on Drake’s failed attempt to hijack Kendrick’s coming-of-age series — gives fans the ending and explanation they’ve been craving, even after “Mr. Morale” and “Strider” ” before. It’s a vulnerable and honest look back at Top Dawg Entertainment’s humble beginnings, detailing their journey together, but more importantly, his decision to leave the label to found pgLang with Dave Free. It would be sad that a black hippie album doesn’t exist, but “Heart Pt. 6” reveals Kendrick’s aspirations. But that’s it — Kendrick’s growth and advancement as an artist and business requires sacrifice, even if it comes at the expense of what fans expect from him. GNX is the glorious first leap in this chapter of Kendrick’s career as he embraces the next generation of stars, proudly carries the West Coast torch and demands the respect he’s earned.