Calliope Music Review of the Week
Kendrick Lamar - GNX
The Great Victory Lap
Icon and cultural powerhouse, Kendrick Lamar continues to spill ink on 2024's contentious Hip Hop scene with a surprise sixth full-length release. Unapologetic and apothegmatic, Kendrick declares himself the pinnacle of contemporary Hip Hop over tight West Coast beats and glossy R&B jams.
The music is simple, bass-heavy, and groovy, bumping hefty rhythms and keen drums akin to a sunset lowrider drive down the warm boulevards of Kendrick's own Los Angeles, California. The L.A. roots run deep, as wavy West Coast synthesizers meet glassy claps and cinematic strings. More serrated Trap accents give heed to a sense of lyrical violence on tracks like 'wacced out murals,' 'hey now,' and 'gnx.' These strains are contrasted by smooth Pop cuts featuring guest vocalists on the songs 'luther,' 'dodger blue,' and 'gloria.' The overall soundscape is a fun and balanced affair but leaves room for greater instrumental distinction.
Where the record becomes truly distinct is Kendrick's verse. The tenured rapper shifts gear from past prose techniques, opting for straightforward and bold confrontations with enemies, personal growth, the city of L.A., and the state of Hip Hop and popular music itself. Embracing his success in rap, Kendrick details his unconditional love for the craft, burying feuds of the past (some not so distant) and igniting new ones. Brimming with West Coast references and memorable refrains, Lamar paints a flagrant picture of himself as a savior for the modern rap scene and an example of the positive impact individual power can have on community and culture.
Of course, Kendrick does not completely refrain from the conscious verse he is acclaimed for, developing complex reflections on his journey to fortune and fame. 'Reincarnated' is the most potent lyrical statement on the record, and sees Lamar personifying the Devil/Lucifer, living through different lives of musicians who were taken by sin and temptation. The track concludes with Kendrick taking the power back from the sins of his past self, utilizing musical influence for good instead of greed. While this song along with 'heart pt. 6' and 'gloria' see the Pulitzer Prize winner flex his poetic ability, the majority of the 44-minute album lacks such depth. Truthfully, GNX is one of Kendrick Lamar's least dense solo projects, settling for less intricate and more ordinary developments.
Nevertheless, there is a strength in simplicity. In this case, sharp production and conservative progressions bring clarity to the fearlessness that is Kendrick Lamar. Warm and bouncing with confidence, GNX is a clear victory lap marinated in appetizing West Coast flavor and genuinely founded cultural significance.
Best Tracks: reincarnated -- tv off -- heart pt. 6
7/10
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