Album: Young Dolph – Paper Route Frank
Prior to Young Dolph’s tragic passing in November 2021, many of his albums were boldly centred around near-death experiences, often anchored by defiant songs of survival against seemingly impossible odds. On the first posthumous project from the Memphis rapper, the vibrance of his artistry shines brightly as if in celebration of his incredible life. A lot of this has to do with the fact that the album was essentially completed while he was still alive, thus reflecting his high standards and overall vision. Yes, a world-weariness pervades a handful of cuts, namely the sombre trap closer “Get Away”. Yet most of the album touches on his successes and all the corresponding spoils, evident on the luxe lifestyle raps of “Smoke My Weed” and “Woah”. He romanticises the game he grew up with on “Love for the Streets” and reaffirms his dedication to the hustle amid the reminiscing of “Old Ways”. Gucci Mane guests on the hyper-virile “Roster”, while the 2 Chainz feature on “Beep Beep” stacks punchlines like bands.