The reason I took ages to review this album is because he didn’t put it on streaming services such as Deezer, which I use exclusively.
About Childish Gambino
If you don’t know who Childish Gambino (a.k.a Donald Glover) then I assume you don’t follow funny TV shows and hate music in general. He’s a comedian/actor/writer/musician. In short he’s super awesome.
To find out more
Because of the Internet
As far as album names goes this is probably close to my favourite for 2014. Simple, relevant and funny.
The who album itself is a reflection of someone who wants to do things unconventionally. Before everyone gets upset, I know there are others like him – Lupe Fiasco, etc, but I like Childish Gambino more.
His skill at taking the spoken word, giving it a catchy beat and then adding a contagious hook is like crack to my twisted mind. I’ve identified with his music since he released his tracks for free on his website.
This album reaffirms my almost childlike reverence for him in both music and film. His songs like “3005” and “Sober” had me silently contemplating my life and how I’ve lived it.
The other song that kinda makes me a bit too mellow by being too good is “Worst Guys” with a rather underrated rapper – Chance the Rapper. The lyrics make me think back a bit too far into my rather unpleasant life.
Anyhow here’s how I rate the album.
The Score
Lyrics: 8.5/10
Probably the best part of the album. His ability to connect with a random person through his lyrics has gained him a legion of die-hard fans (ie me).
“Between us, I think there’s something special, and if I lose my mental, Just hold my hand, even if you don’t understand, hold up” – 3005
This really gets me every time.
Music: 7.5/10
He’s a good producer and musician, but if there’s one part where he maybe loses out to the other rappers out there it is this. Decent hooks and some dope beats, but often lacks something to really stick in your mind.
A standout might be ‘Sober’, which is an amazingly tight tune.
Vocals: 8/10
Good singer, better rapper and great lyricist. It’s hard to judge vocals off rap music because they are here to blow you away with their voices. Their talent lies in the writing and being able to strong together great rhymes. Overall, he’s a good singer too.
Overall: 8/10
Conclusion
A definite must-buy if you already don’t have it. Since it’s not streaming you’ve got to go out to your music stores or pay for the digital copy.
Come on back to streaming Donald. You can do it!
Peace.
thesebeautifulwords 