Future stays working. Future, the 5th studio album from the ATL rapper, is part one of the one-two punch he delivered (HNDRXX dropped only a week after) in 2017, and just as the eponymous title suggests, the LP is a look into the Freebandz honcho, his alter egos and all. "Mask Off" (the remix featuring Kendrick Lamar is also on here) is the obvious standout from the 20 tracker, as Future opens up about his drug use (not that he's NOT been vocal about this) and past over the Tommy Butler-sampling beat courtesy of Metro Boomin. "Super Trapper" is a super flex; his influence is undeniable, and this is the Super Future persona shining through. "Draco" refers to a modified AK-47 assault rifle, and in the song, he fires off at anyone that has/might cross him. "Used to This" with Drake is a celebration record; the two trade bars over a Zaytoven beat, and they're basically saying, "what a time to be alive." "I'm So Groovy" reminds people he's put in work since the Pluto days to become the superstar that he is.

• black double vinyl pressing
• printed inner sleeves
• original release year: 2017
• music label: Freebandz Entertainment 2023

reviewed by rei kowondo 1/2018

ALSO AVAILABLE

• Future: HNDRXX Vinyl 2LP