Denzel Curry has been releasing music since 2011. His age (born in 1995) and South Florida (Dade County) upbringing places him squarely w/ the Soundcloud generation of rappers, and the ex-Raider Klan member certainly runs in some of the same circles as many of the genre's brightest stars. But, Zel is different. You won't hear too many "ooohs," "ahhhs," and "esskeitts" in his music (don't get us wrong, "ooohs," "ahhhs," and "esskeitts" are GREAT). Rather, Curry is about "lethal lyricism and deeply personal storytelling," spitting high-intensity verses over brooding instrumentals: check "Ultimate," arguably the most well known track from DC. Despite the difference in approach, Curry's music carries the same raw, explosive energy that defines works from his contemporaries. The same is true for TA13OO, the third studio album from the lyrically dextrous rapper. Split into three acts—Light, Dark, and Gray—the 13 tracker explores topics ranging from molestation and the presidential election to fame, love, death, and drugs. Production is varied; operating loosely within the trap framework, there are hard-hitting, aggressive moments as well as melancholic and more cerebral ponts that give the album a more eclectic & dramatic feel. Highlights include: "Sum," "Clout Cobain," "Percs," and "Black Balloons).

• pink colored vinyl
• printed insert
• limited edition
• original release year: 2018
• music label: Loma Vista Recordings 2023

reviewed by pocari papi 08/18