Vince Staples – Cry Baby
Cry Baby is Vince Staples' most focused and concentrated work in recent memory. Not one to miss as the uncomfortable truths ring out like war cries
Vince Staples’ punk rock meditation on violence and war, Cry Baby stands in opposition to his patriotic institutionalism; painting himself at the centre of a storm. Like so many disillusioned by their government's actions, he frames his guilt against his nation with shame and contempt.
Sonically, Staples has been teasing this new direction for a while, with the project fully embracing a more punk/alt-rock style. The shift is evident both sonically and lyrically; never have his words been so sparse, yet so powerful. His dejection against a corrupt system, which has seen his colour oppressed, drives the sombre tone throughout the project. Look no further than on Go! Go! Gorilla; a distillation of how his lyrics, flow and production merge seamlessly within this new approach. The album is packed with quotable lyrics, as well, with every track offering a standout line. This is exemplified on another album highlight, Cotton: ‘Music makes me feel just like cotton / Pick me up when I’m falling down’.
Staples' devilish hymns from the depths make Cry Baby his most focused and concentrated work in recent memory. Not one to miss as the uncomfortable truths ring out like war cries. Outstanding.
Listen to: Go! Go! Gorilla, Cotton, 7 in the morning