Curren$y – Muscle Car Chronicles Album Review

Post by Colton S., Feb 21, 2012 at 6:19 pm Speak Up0

It seems like Curren$y has been dropping an album, mixtape, or EP at least once a month lately.  While that might be too much Spitta for many fans to get through, all of the music has received a relatively positive critical reception.  Muscle Car Chronicles, which was released Valentine’s Day, is no exception.

It might be substantially different from a lot of what he’s put out in the past, but it with out a doubt continues Curren$y’s trend of releasing quality music that his fans will definitely be able to get behind.  The most notable difference from his usual formula is the absence of the typical smoky, laidback West Coast beats that he usually rhymes over. Instead, this one is home to production almost exclusively by Sean O’ Connell, a popular modern folk artist.

The result is a completely new feel for Curren$y, that is either hit or miss, but mostly positive.  It’s not his best work, especially from a hip-hop standpoint, but it’s a good listen regardless.

As a whole, the production obviously takes on a definite folk feel. But, it comes with a little bit more “punch” than most music in the genre, thanks to some heavy drums and funky key work.  It fits rather well with Curren$y’s usual themes (hard work, marijuana, and the lifestyle it brings him).  Even though he might be doing well for himself, this one definitely feels like it was made to be relatable for the average listener.

Technically speaking, the production is very well done and it’s extremely polished and smooth.  There are a few notable highlights musically, including the haunting “Frosty” and “Not So Much, which showcases some excellent Jazz Piano.  The sound is different from what strict hip-hop fans might be used to, but it’s fun and enjoyable.  It might not be for everybody, but you can’t knock the quality.

However, this one definitely has its rough points too.  Several reports state that Curren$y recorded this one in late 2010, and you can sort of tell.  It does feel like his rhymes have taken a half step back, but they are still worlds more insightful than what you’ll hear by many popular artists.  His signature style is still present, but his flow and word play have been more potent on some of his other recent projects.

The biggest thing that this one has going against it is it’s somewhat short, yet repetitive nature.  It only comes in at 20 minutes (minus a lengthy set of “bonus” tracks, which I’ve made a note about below), but even so, the music gets sort of redundant quick.  It has nothing to do with the quality of the project, but the inherent limitations of its execution.  The folk/rock side of the project is completely free of instrumental solos or intricate transitions.

As a result, there’s really no room for a lot of variation in sound from one song to the next.  With that in mind, Curren$y’s somewhat monotone lyrical style doesn’t really help its cause here either.  Still, it’s enjoyable music, it just isn’t as good as it probably could have been had it been given more time.

Overall, I’d give this one a 3, but I would love to see more of this type of stuff from Curren$y, or any other hip-hop artists for that matter.  While modern hip-hop might embrace the pop and electronic genres, it often neglects other types of music that could make for interesting crossovers.

If you’re a fan of Curren$y, Jet Life, or similar musical movements, it’s definitely a must grab.  I’d also recommend it if you have a wide range of musical interests, as you’ll probably appreciate the original sound.  But, if you are heavy into “mainstream” music, or a strict hip-hop head, you probably won’t miss anything here.