Both
Curren$y and
the Alchemist have been in the rap game for decades and both are known for prolific output and frequent collaboration, but something about their combined creative powers results in work that feels fresh and engaging.
Continuance isn't the first time the two have joined forces, but it goes different places than their first collaboration, 2011's
Covert Coup. Still driven by
the Alchemist's sample-heavy beats,
Continuance is more mellow and soulful than the often hard-edged funk of
Covert Coup, making space for more relaxed flows and dazzling production details like the dreamy piano arpeggios of "Reese's Cup" or the jazzy feel of "Kool & The Gang."
Curren$y handles the majority of the rhymes here, but gets help from
Boldy James on "No Yeast,"
Styles P on the stoned and shuffling "Whale Watching,"
Babyface Ray on the psychedelic swirl of "Louis Baggage," as well as spots from
Wiz Khalifa,
Havoc, and
Larry June.
The Alchemist's instrumentals are fluid and bubbling over with unexpected sound combinations, and the inspired nature of
Curren$y's performances comes through even when he's at his most laid-back. ~ Fred Thomas