Following the anticipation built from a series of fantastic singles, I Know NIGO has dropped. The album is a culmination of songs from artists curated by the cultural icon, music producer, and fashion designer: Nigo.
The pure cultural pull of Nigo is apparent without even playing the album. Simply seeing the names on the track list alone will make anyone take pause. Catching unexpected names like Clipse next to song titles is a welcome surprise in 2022. The best thing is that all the talents who appear on the album show up so brilliantly. I don't think there was a single performance on this project that came across as lacking in the slightest.
Starting off the track list, we are given a long awaited return of Tyler, The Creator and A$AP Rocky rapping together again. The two part song gives fans more reasons to dream of an ever elusive WANG$AP album. Two tracks later, the next reunion came in the form of Punch Bowl. Nigo brought the Virginia duo, Clipse, back together for the song. Pusha T appears alone later on the project for Hear Me Clearly. Remember was a bittersweet reminder of the talent that Pop Smoke brought to the rap game. His fiery delivery mixed in with a brilliant trap beat makes for a hell of a banger. Pharrell's presence is felt across the album. The production of The Neptunes, two songs, and countless ad libs mark Pharrell's clear contribution to the overall artistic vision of the tape. Kid Cudi, A$AP Ferg, Lil Uzi Vert, Gunna, and a Teriyaki Boyz reunion make up the rest of the artists who appear.
In my opinion, this project can be an interesting way to snapshot rap in 2022. It features artists like Tyler, The Creator whose career is on cloud nine, newer artists like Gunna, vets like Pharrell, and those who've passed on like Pop Smoke. Each of the categories these artists fall under make up the overall picture that is the rap game today, playing a separate and important part that shapes the industry.
Nigo did a fantastic job with this album to say the least. The album has the ability to bring new and old artists together in one project to perform at their best. It's an impressive feat that will not go unnoticed. Though a varied list of artists, the songs are all sharp, proving that being with the best brings out the best. There is something here for any rap fan to appreciate. Be sure to give this album a listen!
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