Album Review: Westside Gunn - And Then You Pray For Me (Score: 7/10) - By RageBoy

 Album Review: Westside Gunn - And Then You Pray For Me (Score: 7/10) - By RageBoy



Introduction:
"And Then You Pray For Me" might mark the end of Westside Gunn's solo journey, and if so, it's a departure worth noting. As the co-founder of Griselda, Gunn has been instrumental in bringing street rap back to the mainstream. This album, scoring a 7/10, showcases a mix of Griselda's signature warm soul samples and contemporary trends, making it a noteworthy conclusion to Gunn's solo discography.

Legacy and Last Solo Album:
Westside Gunn, a stylistic figurehead of Griselda, has worked tirelessly to elevate unnerving street rap. "And Then You Pray For Me" is believed to be his last solo album for a while, and if true, it's a proud departure. Gunn's influence extends beyond Griselda, impacting mainstream projects like the deluxe version of Drake's "Scary Hours."

Signature Sound and Trends:
The album seamlessly blends Griselda's warm soul samples with current trends, featuring standout beats from RZA and Tay Keith. Gunn's lyricism remains sharp, delivering memorable one-liners while providing space for collaborators like Stove God to shine. The mix of the classic and the contemporary makes this album a unique addition to Gunn's body of work.

Shift in Sound and Mainstream Appeal:
While Gunn's projects have catered to underground and old-school hip-hop fans, "And Then You Pray For Me" takes a total shift from Griselda's conventional sound. It reflects Gunn's earned right to explore a different sound that appeals to a broader mainstream audience.

Highs and Lows:
The album, while showcasing moments of hardcore beats and soulful samples, also introduces trap beats, prompting mixed reactions. Some tracks stand out, while others reveal Gunn's struggle with the trap beat flow. "1989" might be considered one of the weaker songs, but gems like "Kitchen Lights" elevate the listening experience.

Long Tracklist and Rough Joints:
Initially, the long tracklist didn't bother fans who believed Gunn could deliver quality across over 20 songs. However, after listening, some felt underwhelmed, citing the challenge Gunn faced on trap beats. Despite rough joints, the album offers hidden gems like "Kitchen Lights."

Personal Experience with "Kitchen Lights":
For some listeners, the album's magic unfolds with tracks like "Kitchen Lights," creating an irresistible desire to keep it on repeat.

Final Verdict (Score: 7/10):
In conclusion, "And Then You Pray For Me" earns a solid score of 7/10. Westside Gunn's departure from the conventional Griselda sound to explore new territories reflects an artist evolving and experimenting, leaving us with a mix of highs and lows.

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