Joey Bada$$ is the truth, straight up. The young Brooklyn MC follows up his 2015 debut with the highly-anticipated sophomore effort All-Amerikkkan Bada$$, and it is exactly what we need right now. Here Jo-Vaughn Scott challenges America's status quo, taking direct aim at social injustice, racism, and political turmoil with powerful lyrics and potent beats. As with Joey's previous work, rhymes are top notch and the production is well-informed by golden era NY hip-hop aesthetics. Heavy boom-bap rhythms permeate the release, updated with a refreshing modern touch courtesy of I-900, Kirk Knight, Statik Selektah, and DJ Khalil. Peep "For My People," "Devastated," the deep rooted funk of "The Land Of The Free," jazz vibes on "Legendary" with J. Cole, "Super Predator" with Styles P, and "Rockabye Baby" with Schoolboy Q. Brooklyn in the house without a doubt! Double vinyl pressing housed in gatefold sleeve featuring stunning album art by designer Tony Whlgn and photographer Gari Askew, complete with printed inner sleeves, insert, and download code. Recommended.

• gatefold sleeve
• printed inner sleeves + insert
• digital download included
• music label: Cinematic Music Group 2017

reviewed by Bodega Cat 04/2017