This release shows that in these modern times, the beats make the product. Playboi Carti doesn’t do a bad job, but it can be repetitive and sounds similar to a lot of artists out at the moment.
The production is interesting with a lot of potential while sounding sonically pleasing. There are a lot of low tone noises to contrast to Carti’s singing and high tones, but not enough to make the tracks great. The backings are good canvas to paint on, but they aren’t strong enough to stand on their own.
The lyricism is not complex or complicated and comes across as basic. Carti seems to depend highly upon his delivery which also seems to rely on autotune. A bit more effort to layer his wordplay would go a long way.
The features break up the monotony, but most are still similar to Cardi’s own style. Each puts in a good effort but not all totally pay off. Something further from his comfort zone would create a lot more songs that would appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, this is a disappointing release that is absurdly average. Playboi Carti should look at his formula and modify it to push himself to do more and do better.