Album: G Herbo – Strictly 4 My Fans 2
When an artist of G Herbo’s calibre makes a statement record, as he did with 2022’s ambitious and revelatory Survivor’s Remorse, one of the best ways forward is a return to form. In a move bound to delight the Chicago rapper’s day-ones as much as his more recent disciples, Strictly 4 My Fans 2 provides a gratifying and concise sequel to his 2016 project. Still, as much as some might want another “Pull Up”, this second instalment reflects his growth and development over a diverse production palette. Menacingly dark and razor-sharp cuts like “Fuck Opps” and “Watch Me Ball, Pt. 2” speak to his tenure as a drill ambassador, while “Any Other Way” speaks frankly on pain with a street poet’s perspective. A young veteran of the game with plenty to say, he mostly eschews features; an exception is the ominous “Outside” with GloRilla and Mello Buckzz. Later, he weighs the pro-versus-con complications of fame on “Off Days” and thematically explores trauma with sincere remorse on “Letter to My Love”.