JID, the Atlanta-based rapper, has always been known for his incredible flow and impressive lyrical ability, but his new album The Forever Story showcases a whole new level of versatility and range. The album, which is a sequel to his 2017 breakout The Never Story, covers a wide range of themes and styles, from heartfelt ballads to hard-hitting verses and everything in between.

For some quick backstory For those unfamiliar with Dreamville, the label was founded by rapper J. Cole as a creative outlet for his own music. However, over time it has grown into a true collective of talented artists. JID was a natural fit for Dreamville. His early mixtapes DiCaprio and Para Tu had already caught J. Cole's attention, but it was The Never Story in 2017 that solidified JID's place within the Dreamville team. The Never Story demonstrated not only that JID was a good fit for the label, but that he was one of the team's strongest members. This was further solidified with the release of DiCaprio 2 in 2018, which included standout tracks like "Off Deez" featuring J. Cole and the frenetic "151 Rum."

The Forever Story opens with a solid intro “skit” that transitions well into "Raydar," a track that immediately showcases JID's ability to switch up his flow and style, as he raps about his range and the different types of music he can create. He raps, "I got the shit you could play for your mama/I got the shit you could play for the hoes/I got the shit you could sell to the trappers/In Decatur with the 'K and the Colt." This sets the tone for the rest of the album, which is full of surprises and unexpected twists and turns.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Crack Sandwich," where JID delves into his family history, telling a powerful and emotional story about him and his six siblings fighting a small army outside a New Orleans bar. The track is full of raw energy and emotion, and it's clear that JID is pouring his heart and soul into the music. Another standout track is "Sistanem," where JID examines the way his success has affected his relationship with one of his sisters. The track is full of introspection and vulnerability, and it's a powerful reminder of the human side of JID.

The production on the album is top-notch, with executive producer Christo and a handful of other producers offering up a wide range of sounds and styles. "Surround Sound" flips the same Aretha Franklin sample used on Yasiin Bey's "Ms. Fat Booty" with harder drums that pulse like subwoofers in a trunk. Nervy footwork-inspired beats from Kaytranada (“Can’t Punk Me”) share space with melancholic live-band instrumentation from Canadian jazz outfit BADBADNOTGOOD (“Stars”) and Justus League member Khrysis (“Money”).

One of the most impressive things about the album is the number of clever musical references that are tucked away in the tracks. JID references a number of his influences throughout the album, from JAY-Z and Kanye West to Lil Wayne and Michael Jackson. The album also features a number of samples from classic songs, such as the Last Poets' "Mean Machine" and OutKast's "Rosa Parks." These references add depth and richness to the music, and they help to make the album feel like a cohesive and well-thought-out project.

The album is not without its flaws, however. Some of the guest verses feel out of place, and some of the songs, like "Surround Sound" and "Can't Make U Change," feel a bit too long and bloated. Additionally, the sequencing of the album can be a bit disjointed at times, making it difficult to fully grasp the overall narrative of the album.

Overall, JID's "The Forever Story" is a strong and ambitious album that showcases the rapper's incredible range and versatility. The production is top-notch, the guest verses are well-chosen, and the musical references add depth and richness to the music. The album is not without its flaws, but it's a powerful and emotionally resonant project that is sure to please JID's fans and win him new ones.

Songs to Add to Your Playlist

Raydar

Dance Now

Crack Sandwich

Kody Blu 31

Sistanem

Can’t Make U Change

Just In Time

2007

Apex Rating

4/5

Cover Art Credit

https://www.reddit.com/r/JIDSV/comments/vm4c2v/the_forever_story_cover_art_concept/

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