‘Keishas Song’ intricately narrates the story of just one of many young women facing issues within a dystopian community, adding to the mature theme the album follows. The weight in Section.80 lies in numerous avenues – one of which is its storytelling. Crunk, Southern flavours are present on ‘The Spiteful Chant’ which features Schoolboy Q whereas ‘A.D.H.D’ embraces an airy atmospheric sound, which is also injected with a Midwest-like Kendrick Lamar performance with slick, talk meshing seamlessly. The child like observations brought up in ‘Poe Man’s Dream’ usurps a soulful, heartfelt message which will transcend past the LA borders.Įven production, which is handled by Soundwave, THC, and Tommy Black amongst others doesn’t remain in the funkier and dirty drones and synths of typical West material. Conceptions of the XXL Freshman resembling previous Compton born acts have long since dispersed and Section.80 continues to put such assumptions to rest. Painting a bleak, concrete jungle depiction of LA life during the former Presidents tenure, Kendrick’s trawl through history is a mature affair, which is something many of the ’80s born rappers lack. When tackling heavier productions – or in the case of the track ‘Ronald Reagan Era’ – tackling heavier issues, this is where the current hype over the starlet begins to become justified. The suave, jazz influenced ‘Hol’ Up’ and the chilled ‘Chapter Six’ leaves room for less intense performances but still display enough of Lamar’s talents. Blending rapid beats with a harmonising piano, the 24 year old goes to work early – embracing a double time, rhythmic flow punching through autobiographical verses.Ĭompton’s rising star takes an old school approach to spitting – cleverly arranged rhymes which are delivered with much vigour over a range of different tempos. Set to a continued theme of an ominous neighbourhood meeting around an open fire, Section.80 begins with a mysterious voice which bellows out ‘ F*** your Ethnicity‘ – the first track of Lamar’s album.
Dropping an independent album which rather adds a spike to his peak rather than denting it has proven to be a task too tough for many. Section 80 for the time being, currently remains as the rappers greatest test. But since his much lauded Kendrick Lamar EP, O(verly) D(edicated) release and a co-sign by XXL Magazine, the Lamar mentions have travelled far beyond his Compton hometown and now anticipation for a new product is shared by more. Kendrick Lamar for the last few years has predominantly been a name referenced in the California regions. Whether the hysteria remains after their first album or if it dissolves into a pool of hate will always differ depending on material, their ego or their authenticity. The collective appreciation of an emerging new rapper will forever remain present.
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