Detroit emcee and producer Marv Won returns with his fifth full-length solo album, albeit his first since signing to Merlo Music Group. As a member of the world famous Fat Killahz, he is widely respected on tour and has released the last 4 albums and several EPs. It’s been over two years since we last heard about Marv’s third EP, Hagler, and he’s looking to respond to everyone asking about his health by simply saying, “I’m fine, thank you for asking.”
The title track is a homemade boom bap opener about how he feels like he’s not allowed and they really are and they really wish he could save their asses, while Twin Towers features eLZhi’s “Measuring” Stick” brings 3 Motor City giants together to play a gritty, bass-filled anthem that resonates with the hard life of the city. “Roc Nation Brunch” featuring Freeway blends epic orchestration and pounding Joe Louis-like drums like Tommy Hearns to present a picture of black excellence, while “Purple” tells the story of a woman destroyed by a love.
“It’s Ok” takes a smoother approach, serving up comfort food for those just trying to get through the day, while “Higher” incorporates this ghostly vocal sample flip so that Marv can legitimately talk about How to become a better person. Say My Name, starring Monica Blaire, affectionately encourages acknowledging people by saying their name out loud so they know who they’re with, but then “Nosy” stars rapper Big Pooh and is back in style, explaining why they can’t sell drugs.
Quelle Chris shines on penultimate track “Good Thangs,” crafting a gritty narrative that guides listeners from enduring life’s hardships to heading toward the dawn, creating a listening experience that It feels like a voyage from the depths of darkness to the first light of dawn. Savoring its finest moments, subtly reminding us of the virtue of humility, warning us not to fall into the trap of greed, and encouraging us to keep our heads high in the face of adversity, “Grand Piano” closes the LP, stripping down the drums in celebration.
In his MMG debut, one of the Motor City’s most prolific fight hosts takes us on a naked effort, weaving stories of struggle and triumph inspired by his hometown’s storied life. He goes beyond mere verse to paint a vivid portrait of life in D by demonstrating his wordplay and seamless blend of production and storytelling, bringing lyricism to his unapologetically raw and heartfelt rhymes. The ferocity. The album is a masterful blend of production and rap, pure Detroit soul and sound that resonates with the city’s hard life.
Rating: 9/10
