So Help Me God! sure did tease us. Glancing at the featuring artists, we’re guessing that it was these heavyweights’ busy schedules that caused the release to be delayed. One thing is for sure: 2 Chainz’ sixth album was worth the wait. Despite the slightly confusing opening few tracks, its versatile and audacious side enrich the current American rap scene – one which all too often relies on autopilot. Here, it’s all about taking risks. That does mean that there are a few flops, like Lambo Wrist and Quarantine Thick (despite being one of the album’s singles). Though the risk-taking also gives us soaring, graceful, brilliant moments. Like Can’t Go For That which, as the title suggests, samples from Hall and Oates’ 1981 hit, embellishing it with TR-808 rhythms. It’s a track where the melody is brought to the fore, something which happens again on Southside Hov and Vampire. Though 2 Chainz would be nothing without his dark side. Even though the melodies are largely optimistic, some tracks like Ziploc featuring Kevin Gates will appeal to those who like deep, mellow moods. 2 Chainz sure knows how to throw a party: Kanye West and the RnB sensation Brent Faiyaz get involved on Feel A Way, a track that’s overflowing with creativity and was co-produced by the great Mike Dean. The latter was also behind YRB, a flavourful synth-packed guitar-soaked track featuring Rick Ross and Skooly. Coming after his No Face No Case project released earlier in 2020, 2 Chainz proves that even though his releases sound like a succession of tracks with no overall message or atmosphere, he’s still a banger rap boss. © Brice Miclet/Qobuz