After several singles were dropped in the lead up to this album it’s safe to say this was my most anticipated release of the year. Little Simz has really come through with her most raw and personal album to date. The opening track “Introvert” is a theatrical masterpiece which gives you goosebumps within the first ten seconds, from the cinematic brass accompanying the rolling snare drum. It feels like an anthem of a generation, fearless and vulnerable, “Introvert” bares all in its strength, openness and fluidity.
Little Simz’ ability to perform and put into words personal pain is so emotive and taps into something powerful to make you feel every word in the track, particularly in “I Love You, I Hate You”. Her immaculate flow paired with orchestral strings and beats highlights her incredible songwriting and fire.
Don’t be under the misconception that this is only a hip-hop album. Soulful energy in “I See You”, Nigerian and cultural influences in “Point And Kill'' and a hint of trap and incredible change of flow in “Rollin Stone” set her apart in this cohesive masterpiece of an album.
The intertwining of interludes frame the album to create an otherworldly and cathartic experience, like in the track “Gems”. The combination of orchestra, children’s choir and the actress Emma Corrin’s spoken word are just magic. The end of the album holds just as many jewels like “How Did You Get Here” and “Miss Understood”; lyrically the most poignant piece which powerfully bookends the album with reconciliation and a self-awareness of how far she’s come.
Little Simz’ ability to perform and put into words personal pain is so emotive and taps into something powerful to make you feel every word in the track, particularly in “I Love You, I Hate You”. Her immaculate flow paired with orchestral strings and beats highlights her incredible songwriting and fire.
Don’t be under the misconception that this is only a hip-hop album. Soulful energy in “I See You”, Nigerian and cultural influences in “Point And Kill'' and a hint of trap and incredible change of flow in “Rollin Stone” set her apart in this cohesive masterpiece of an album.
The intertwining of interludes frame the album to create an otherworldly and cathartic experience, like in the track “Gems”. The combination of orchestra, children’s choir and the actress Emma Corrin’s spoken word are just magic. The end of the album holds just as many jewels like “How Did You Get Here” and “Miss Understood”; lyrically the most poignant piece which powerfully bookends the album with reconciliation and a self-awareness of how far she’s come.
STAFF COMMENTS
Barry says: Little Simz returns for the much anticipated follow-up to the superb 2019 LP 'Grey Area', this time clearly showing the meteoric trajectory of her songwriting and lyricism. There's vital, fiery rap and deep instrumentation that quickly switch into rich soulful R&B, flawlessly and seamlessly. An undeniable force in the future of hip-hop.TRACK LISTING
Introvert
Woman (feat. Cleo Sol)
Two Worlds Apart
I Love You I Hate You
Little Q Part 1
Little Q Part 2
Gems
Speed
Standing Ovation
I See You
The Rapper That Came To Tea
Rollin Stone
Protect My Energy
Make Promises
Point And Kill (feat. Obongjayar)
Fear No Man
The Garden Interlude
How Did You Get Here
Miss Understood