02/07/2021
Sentimentalism employs layers of rhythms and melodies, punctuated by brilliant arrangement, coalescing in one of the best hip-hop albums I've heard in a while. And I'm sure it's difficult to take me seriously, being as I've admitted to knowing RayRayBeats, but I'm completely serious. The use of melody and arrangement compliments the flow of RayRayBeats' lyrics so deftly, that it never sounds as if someone is rapping over a track. No, it sounds full and complete. Every piece in its right place. Everything functions together in such a complete and satisfying way that I guarantee a non-English speaker could enjoy this album for the sound alone.
So, I should open with a disclaimer of sorts. I know RayRayBeats and have worked with him on some projects. I don't believe any have seen the light of day, but we did work together. I remember one time he told me that he would never hang with me if I wasn't a good musician. For a second I felt a bit...