Chancellor Bennett, also known as Lil Chano to his Chicago compatriots [but known to the masses as Chance the Rapper], has been doing big things ever since Acid Rap back in 2013. He is indeed picking up where Kanye left off in 2004 with his soul, jazz, and art style. After co-writing on Yeezy’s The Life of Pablo the rapper has decided to release his masterpiece Coloring Book, which has an Afro-centric, gospel, and turn up aura about it. This tape consists of 14 tracks [although there are two tracks with the same title] and boasts several features ranging from Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, Kanye West, Jeremih ,Future, and Mr. West’s Chicago Children Choir.
Having dropped just over 24 hours ago, the world is still taking it in; but the buzz has been favourable. On “No Problem,” Chance exerts ample energy alongside Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz. Infusing Hip Hop with Gospel isn’t anything new per-say, but he has managed to craft the sound for radio play.
“Socks on concrete jolly rancher kids, I was talking back — and now I got to stay at grandma’s crib. Bunch of tank top, nappy headed bike stealing Chatham boys, none of my niggas ain’t have no dad, none of my niggas ain’t have no choice.”
—Chance The Rapper
“Summer Friends” is a heartfelt track that describes the urban norm of losing close friends to either violence or prison during the summer season, which many youths in the United Snakes can relate to.
On another record, “Blessings Chance,” the Rapper is preaching to the common folk [dispersed and oppressed] of not only Chicago, but the whole world. As the jazzy horns blare in the background, the beat stomps like feet at a Sunday service. On “Smoke Break,” Chano and Future Hendrix weave through the snares, bass, and cymbals, dropping bars about their past smoke partners of the opposite sex, setting the tone for a laid back vibe for this upcoming hot season.
For the conscious community, 90s babies, and overall fans of great soul music with profound messages, go and purchase this well written, produced project; you won’t regret it!
