GNX, Kendrick Lamar’s most recent album, released Nov. 22, 2024, is a blend of pride, introspection, and manhood. He delivers another amazing 12-track album. I am covering 4 songs I enjoyed hearing the most.
1. “Wacced out murals”
A statement introduction sets the scene for feelings of anger, pride, frustration, truthfulness, and sarcasm. The underlying question of what Lamar’s legacy could be surrounds this song. As he speaks out about several artists in the industry, he compliments the lyrics with spacey and retro samples.
2. “Luther” feat. SZA
The “love ballad” that is Luther is a promise to the person he loves. Kendrick and SZA share the possibilities and inspiration to do better for themselves and express self-growth and maturity, a positive outlook on life full of relationships.
3. “Man at the Garden”
This is one of the most underrated tracks for its slow-building tension while remaining harmoniously calm. Lamar repeats “I deserve it all” whether it is money, power, recognition, acknowledgment, or respect, but mainly to be the greatest of all time. At the same time, he talks about his intentions, his beliefs, his family, and his rise to fame.
4. “Reincarnated”
I chose this song for the placement of the instruments utilized, especially the piano that is maintained throughout the entire song. Some of the best lyricism and flow from the entire album came from reincarnated. Overall, this is a stellar song that never misses.
A surprise drop from one of the most influential hip-hop artists of his generation caught many off guard. GNX was a more subtle and indirect album compared to his earlier music like DAMN (2017), Lamar’s fourth studio album.
Nevertheless, his self-expression remains limitless. Kendrick keeps each track concise and he understands how to play into the sound of where he is from, especially by featuring local artists. The combination of chaotic beats with beautiful melodies to create unique tracks that still felt like a whole was a masterpiece in itself. The album talks about where he is in his life and his feelings towards the state he is in. There is still a lot to decode and dissect, so spend time and patience on this album.
