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“I’m the biggest hypocrite of 2015” Kendrick Lamar (2015).
Kendrick Lamar’s sophomore release ‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ has fused his original gun-go bar hopping style with more traditional musical influences from Afro-American culture such as Jazz and Motown. This brave direction has paid off and his new album shows an evolution within Hip/Hop culture.
After the genesis that was ‘G.O.O.D kid mad city’ no one knew what Kendrick was going to pursue. Fans were satiated by odd releases and feature tracks which such as ‘Control’ where he literally called out all members of the rap community.
This renegade attitude earned him respect as well as hatred. This attitude is still prominent within the enigma which is Mr. Lamar. From the very first track ‘Wesley’s Theory’ which features funk legend and favourable producer George Clinton and up and coming artist ‘Thundercat’ the sounds are unrecognisable. Its energy and deepness resonates like a prolific dream.
“When the 4 corners of this cocoon collide” introduces Thundercat. The aesthetic is laid down yet it never stays the same. Kendrick’s rapid fire word play rushes to your head and you’re enticed into this master plan of hip-hop progression.
Kendrick often pays homage to the past when he plays recordings of conversations with him and Dr Dre who talks of Kendrick ambition. This homage shows the deep roots within the Compton community and especially by their champions both old and young.
Furthermore, the jazz influence is evident within the track “Aint Free!” (Prelude). The fast paced drums and improvised trumpet moans complement Kendrick’s style positively. The use of preludes and black cultural influences reminds us of the classic hip hop albums from ‘Doggystyle’ to ‘All Eyez on Me’.
Kendrick in fact channels the ideological stance of Tupac. The last track on the album is ‘Mortal Man’. Kendrick samples clips of an interview with Tupac and words it so as if he is asking the questions. This is a hip-hops fanatic’s wet dream. Kendrick may intentionally be doubling himself and Tupac and championing himself as a social hero – especially for the black community. Either way it’s a touching homage which really makes you believe in the evolution of hip hop.
The playful nature within Lamar’s debut album is preserved. Samples such as “When you hear the next pop; the funk will be within you” are met with an immediate pop and walking bass. These miniscule moments make for a memorable record which pleases the fans.
Kendrick also stated recently in an interview that “he wanted to make a positive change with his music”. The album certainly evokes thoughts of change. The celebration of Afro-American starts with “Institutionalised” which talks about the nature of growing up in Compton. The proletariat content hits hard on a conscious level. Lamar can make a laid back/stoner tune within his sleep and this new direction provides many a challenge.
The audacity and courage should be celebrated since Kendrick is using his musical prowess as a source of social change. We respect that. “Institutionalised” licks the pavements of Compton while “The Blacker the Berry” obliterates the glass ceiling surrounding it. It is a marvel in production and Kendrick’s blunt delivery gives it impact. The reggae-dub hook elevates the song to another level. Kendrick is certainly taking no prisoners on this one.
Another Omnipresent theme on ‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ is sex. There is no hiding from certain theme on the album and this one tops the list. Songs such as ‘These Walls’ featuring previous collaborator Anna Wise have an instant vibe of euphoria and positivity which jiggles the body. Just as the leading single ‘I’ achieves. ‘I’ is a celebration of human excellence. While intended as an Afro-American anthem it easily appeals to many other cultures. The track is ten letters away from “It feels good”.
On the other hand, the album references its specific demographic many a times throughout. While we understand the need for cultural prominence and pride, Kendrick could possibly alienate his white audience. Yet, the mystery of that culture is the greatest factor in hip hop’s success. It has become a worldwide phenomenon and the fresh blood, such as Lamar, are evolving it within a technological age.
Lamar’s album is unconventional, prolific and the best of hip hop culture. The originality is unparalleled and Lamar’s knack for characterising through voices and diction is still a skill to wonder at. It strikes the perfect album through celebrating hip-hop while completely dismantling it. While he talks of sex and funk he contrasts it with social commentary and unrelenting jazz which provides noir nostalgia. We are unbelievably impressed with this album and see the future platform of hip-hop being raised. Kendrick certainly has both firmly planted upon it.