The fourth studio album from the acclaimed supergroup was released two days earlier than planned, with the duo explaining “here’s something raw to listen to while you deal with it all”, and it is certainly raw. With innovative production from El-P using lots of vocal samples, the highly political songwriting matches the sentiments being expressed by many people right now; RTJ4 even references recent events, showing that the group pays attention to the zeitgeist. They call out many aspects of society for their inherent racism in their lyrics via songs like JU$T (also an example of the several powerful collaborations featured on the tracklist). The album kept me at a chokehold throughout and is incredibly timely and rightfully angry at the current situation. RTJ4 is yet another example of hip-hop excellence.
TOP 3 SONGS:
1. Walking in the Snow
– The less-in-your-face production present on this sing allows the commentary on various social issues to take centre stage. The second verse in particular is amazing, referencing George Floyd and not holding others accountable. There are so many great lyrics like “every day on the news they feed you fear for free”, and Gangsta Boo’s choruses break up the heavy sentiments so the listener doesn’t get overwhelmed but still finishes the track feeling riled up. SCORE: 5/5
2. A Few Words for the Firing Squad (Radiation)
– Referencing personal struggles like the death of Killer Mike’s mother as well as metaphorical lyrics about feeling ostracised and targeted, the powerful closing track is the epitome of politics on the record with lyrics like “black child in America, the fact that I made it was magic”. The unique outro references classic TV shows as well as completing the introduction from the first track, completing the cycle of the entire LP representing the fictitious Yankee and the Brave show. In the end it puts a positive spin on resisting and fighting for what’s right. SCORE: 4.5/5
3. Out of Sight (ft. 2 Chainz)
– This collaboration contains an intriguing best that almost tickles the ears when listening with headphones, and it’s just pure hip-hop joy. SCORE: 4/5
OVERALL SCORE: 5/5
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