Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers
Kendrick Lamar's Fifth Studio Album: A Raw and Introspective Masterstroke
Kendrick Lamar, the Pulitzer Prize-winning hip-hop mastermind, returns after a five-year hiatus with Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, a double album that sees him navigating the complexities of a world transformed by the pandemic, #MeToo movement, and global protests against police brutality. Delving into the depths of his personal struggles, Lamar abandons the supreme moral authority he once held and instead offers an intimate exploration of his identity.
The 19-song, 72-minute project is a powerful fusion of Lamar's lyrical prowess, complex and unpredictable production from collaborators such as Digi+Phonics, Pharrell Williams, and DJ Dahi, and raw, stream-of-consciousness storytelling. Family and friends form the core of Kendrick's identity, but it is his journey to understand himself that drives the album. Lamar explores topics like therapy, grief, shame, and racial trauma, showcasing his messy admissions through quick strokes and sketches.
Though the album lacks the jazz fusion experiments of "To Pimp a Butterfly," it stands as a challenging and introspective work that defies easy categorization. The unpredictable production, with most songs featuring at least three producers, creates a smooth yet askew listening experience. The beats and occasional R&B samples provide some structure to the often-rambling verses.
"Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers" features moments of levity and groove, as well as thought-provoking tracks like "Mother I Sober," which unflinchingly examines the legacy of sexual abuse in Black America. With its mix of astonishing rapping, aggrieved posturing, attention to detail, and self-affirmation, the album offers an elusive yet intriguing portrait of Kendrick Lamar.
Guest appearances on the album are sparse but effective, including contributions from Summer Walker, Ghostface Killah, and "Zola" star Taylour Paige. However, the album's true strength lies in Lamar's willingness to expose his scars and confront his demons. Through the lens of his long-time partner Whitney Alford, who serves as the album's narrator, Lamar presents a vulnerable and authentic exploration of his own psyche.
"Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers" may not have the radio-friendly hits of Lamar's previous work, but it is a thought-provoking and rewarding experience for those willing to engage with its complexities. As a long-time fan, witnessing Lamar's growth and evolution as an artist is nothing short of exciting. This raw and introspective album showcases his undeniable genius and cements his status as the defining rapper of his generation. It's a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike, demonstrating that gods are indeed born in vacuums.
Cover Credits: https://www.reddit.com/r/KendrickLamar/comments/unrs74/created_an_alternate_cover_for_mr_morale_the_big/
Songs To Add
United In Grief
N95
Father Time
Purple Hearts
Count Me Out
Silent Hill
Savior
Apex Score
4.75/10