Album Review: Isaiah Rashad

Isaiah Rashad’s new album, “It’s Been Awful” explores themes of reflection, family trauma, personal struggles with drugs,  and growth in the face of it all. The album is an easy listen at 16 tracks and 54 minutes.

Sonically this album is very consistent with Isaiah Rashad’s past albums. His melodic hooks, vibey instrumentals, and cool flows did not disappoint.

The album’s standout tracks sit next to each other on the track list.  “SAME SH!T” features  heavy bass, punchy drums, and flows that make you nod your head. The subject matter of this track is heavy, and gritty. The following track  “BOY IN RED” (feat SZA) has a lighter tone and features a funky rhythm, dreamy vocals, and subject matter focused on love and dating.

Fans who have been listening since Cilvia Demo, will appreciate small details of this album like the sampled conversation pieces, distorted and pitch-shifted vocals, and the doubled vocal ad libs. 

My personal favorite track is “SUPERPWRS” - It feels like a microcosm of the entire album’s sound. I.e. dreamy melodies, a hard hitting beat, catchy hook, prominent bars, and moody switch-ups.

My rating: 8/10.

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Illustration: Kenny Routt