Despite the high number of guest appearances, A$AP Rocky is without a doubt the star of this LSD-fueled musical experience. The most euphoric representation of A.L.L.A.’s psychedelic aesthetic is “L$D”, a mind-altering rap/mostly percussion-free sing-along which couldn’t be more descriptive with its acid inspired imagery (the video for this song is a must-watch). These tripped-out sonic elements cast a hazy shadow over the entire project, including the multitude of more hard-hitting bangers. Songs such as the ‘Lil Wayne is back!’ reaction inducing “M’s”, another quality collab with ScHoolboy Q in “Electric Body”, and trill-rooted Juicy J/UGK featured “Wavybone” are all guided by Rocky in a manner which proves his masterful ability to achieve cohesion as an atmospheric vibe commander.
It is clear that A$AP Rocky had a specific vision he wanted to execute with this album because there is no level of compromise when it comes to any ‘radio-friendly’ tracks. Even the soul sampling, Kanye West-featured “Jukebox Joints” and just as accessible Miguel/Mark Ronson driven “Everyday” are crafted in a method that reflects the sonic design of the project. However, not everything is perfect in this drug-filled utopia of A$AP Rocky. As an emcee who has never been mind-blowing from a lyrical perspective, the familiar subject matter may tire listeners who were hoping to see growth in that area. Rocky’s often encountered sexual boasting also takes an unnecessary turn on “Better Things” when he fires vicious shots at singer Rita Ora. While this may be an effective attention-garnering promo tactic, it negatively sticks out on an album that is otherwise void of shock value lyrics.
Overall, A.L.L.A. is an album that places A$AP Rocky in the growing category of top tier rappers who have decided to take well-executed risks with their highly anticipated bodies of work. The confidence of Rocky radiates over a fascinating palette of production filled with layered backing vocals, off-kilter melodies, filtered effects, and rap-rock fusion (thanks to Danger Mouse). A$AP Yams, the man who reminded us of his ability to talk smack with the best of them on album closer “Back Home” (featuring a rare verse from Mos Def), also deserves much credit as an architect of A.L.L.A. and ensuring Rocky’s art moved forward in the right direction. This album may not be what some fans expected from the Harlem native, but the musically unrestricted A.L.L.A. is a thought provoking sonic experience that contains some of A$AP Rocky’s boldest work to date.
Repeatable: “L$D”, “Canal St.”, “Wavybone”
Skippable: “Better Things”, “Dreams (Interlude)”
Discussion about this post