The highly anticipated third studio album from Playboi Carti called MUSIC contains 30 tracks, triggering massive online excitement. As a hip-hop artist known for his unconventional approach Carti keeps pushing boundaries by testing new sounds and production techniques and vocal delivery methods and fast-paced rhythms. But, does MUSIC represent a masterpiece or just an ambitious musical project?
Since his debut in 2017, Playboi Carti has been a mystery in the rap scene, becoming a legendary figure among his devoted fans. With Die Lit (2018), he established himself as a pioneer of experimental trap, and Whole Lotta Red (2020) solidified his role as a trendsetter, blending punk influences into his music, which divided both critics and his audience. With MUSIC, he elevates that adventurous spirit, delivering an exhilarating yet somewhat overwhelming album.
The new album contains 30 songs that creates a complex and layered musical experience. A talented group of producers, F1LTHY, Kanye West and Pierre Bourne created an innovative sonic framework that blends trap music with industrial and electronic sounds throughout the production. On “Crush” featuring Travis Scott, Carti uses his signature baby voice while deep distorted bass complements the track, and “Rather Lie” with The Weeknd brings melodic focus to expose a contemplative Carti.
The way Carti delivers his vocals stands as one of the main points of discussion in his artistic approach. Carti maintains his signature vocal techniques through his screeching vocals in “Mojo Jojo” featuring Kendrick Lamar, which creates an otherworldly effect. Fans of Carti will love the album because it delivers an extravagant and energetic take on traditional rap music.
The reception of MUSIC has matched the divided expectations of critics. Some music critics label it as a game-changing record that transforms hip-hop, yet others call it chaotic with too many songs. Nonetheless, the statistics speak for themselves. Playboi Carti’s debut reached Billboard 200 No. 1 after selling 298,000 equivalent album units during its initial week of release, while all 30 songs entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time in history.
The album MUSIC showcases the bold artistic direction of Playboi Carti. The one thing that stands out in MUSIC is how Playboi Carti is shaping the direction of rap through his bold artistic approach regardless of your reaction to his music.
