The Great Escape

Larry Junes first Top 40-charting album, 2022s Spaceships on the Blade, included a track featuring the Alchemist, and the star producer teamed up with June for the following years The Great Escape, which attained a higher chart position. Alchemists smooth, breezy production fits Junes cool-headed hustler persona like the glove worn by the rapper on the albums illustrated cover. Mellow, unhurried grooves and soft rock horns back Junes investment advice ("you can accomplish anything with a solid plan") and casual boasts about collecting art and buying expensive candles. Without getting too outlandish, Alchemist applies creative, left-field touches like the dubby sonar echo of "Palisades, CA" or the choppy soul samples of the creamy, hazy "Porsches in Spanish." Guest verses are provided by major figures like Wiz Khalifa, Curren$y, Action Bronson, and Detroits Big Sean, Slum Village, and Boldy James, yet none upstage the albums hosts or disrupt the laid-back atmosphere. June still isnt quite the most distinctive rapper in terms of subject matter or delivery, but his optimism and effortless style are endearing, and The Great Escape is easily one of his most successful projects. ~ Paul Simpson

高水準な作品の連発で人気上昇中なベイエリアのラッパーの新作はファン待望となるアルケミストとの共作。これまでにも良質なコラボ曲を発表している両者だけに相性の良さは言わずもがなで、ラリーのレイドバックなスタイルにマッチした極上のトラックが揃っている。ジョーイ・バッドアスやカレンシー、ウィズ・カリファらゲストの人選もツボを押さえ、"60 Days"ではまさかのアルケミスト自身もラップを披露。カリフォルニアのドライな空気を匂わせる楽曲が並んでおり、これからの暖かくなる季節にますます重宝する一枚になるだろう。"89 Earthquake"での久保田早紀サンプリングも最高すぎる。
bounce (C)Masso 187um