Danny Brown made waves with his 2011 project XXX. Not known for spitting censored adulterated lyrics, his previous release’s title got its name from both the x-rated bars he racked up all throughout, and the his age–he was thirty when it dropped. While the songs were raunchy, and his voice was borderline shrill at moments, critics and fans alike enjoyed his brash confidence and his comfortableness in front of the mic. Although many found his delivery grating, if you work your way past your ears initial response, an emcee whose lyrical prowess can match the best of them quickly appears.
His newest album, OLD, continues all of the traditions started in his previous. Once again the album title is reference to his age, a relatively old (in the hip hop sense) emcee, who still raps wild and crazy like ODB. The lyrical monstrosity that is Danny Brown is unleashed right from the beginning with the an ode to boom-bap, “Side A”. He refuses to be stuck in the past, and listen to those fans who want the old Brown back–whether that means rapping about slinging crack or over electronic beats. This juxtaposition between constantly evolving as an artist and fan’s expectations or desires becomes an important motif.
Whether you like him or not, you should definitely give this album a try. Spotify has the entire album available to stream, and you can check it out above.
Jimi (@Nativejimi)
