“DAMN” Album Review
Stories of childhood, family, wickedness and weakness permeate Lamar’s latest body of work.
During the release of “DAMN” everyone is jamming out to “HUMBLE”, one of his best hits.
Kendrick Lamar has already taken the hip-hop culture by storm because of his style, sounds, and lyrics. In many cities, protesters have used Kendrick’s lyrics as chants. For example, in New York many protesters were singing the chorus of “Alright” off of “To Pimp a Butterfly,” his third studio album.
“DAMN,” Kendrick Lamar’s fourth studio album, is great. Throughout this album Lamar tells many messages, stories, and dreams. Storytelling is Lamar’s primary goal and his best skill.
In “BLOOD,” he starts off by talking about wickedness and weakness, which is the central message of the album. In the song “DNA,” he talks about his family history and how the news glorifies and stereotypes the hip-hop culture. Then, in “YAH” Kendrick talks about how FOX News is only using his name to get more viewers and money. In “ELEMENT” he talks about how no one can do anything to take him out of his element or zone, like a tunnel vision. Throughout “FEEL” he talks about the struggles in his career and his inner demons as well. When creating “LOYALTY” he only surrounded himself with people who have always been loyal to him.
The messages and lessons go beyond the obvious story telling, however. In certain parts of the album, songs can be played backwards and a whole new message arises. For example, throughout”DUCKWORTH” there are many parts where it sounds like gibberish. But played backwards, a whole new message emerges. Clearly, with his innovation and unique approach, Kendrick is one of the best lyricists of our time.
Overall this album deserves a 9/10. Everyone, whether they like hip-hop or not, should listen to this album. They will be forever changed, and grateful that they did.
