Wave(s)

Wave[s] is the first official release by Chicago-based MC Mick Jenkins after several buzz-building digital mixtapes. The EP continues the aquatic theme of his previous release, 2014's acclaimed The Water[s], with Jenkins continuing to request the listener to "drink more water." Instead of clouding or distorting the mind with alcohol, caffeine, or sugar, water purifies and refreshes, and that's what Jenkins' intention seems to be. His intelligent lyrics and occasionally aggressive delivery hark back to '90s conscious rap (with the Roots and early OutKast occasionally springing to mind) but without directly copying anything from that era. The EP's production (primarily by ThemPeople but also including contributions by Lee Bannon, Kaytranada, and Mulatto) is excellent throughout, managing to be as ethereal as it is trunk-rattling. "Slumber" is particularly stunning, featuring cascades of complex, crunchy drum breaks and horns. Compared to previous mixtapes, Jenkins' lyrical focus has shifted a bit. He's still delivering harsh truths about society, but he's also tackling more introspective matters, especially ones relating to love and relationships. Accordingly, his music seems a slight bit more danceable and accessible than before, but not to the point of pandering to a hedonistic club audience. The EP's nine tracks clock in at under half an hour, giving Jenkins time to touch several bases while leaving room for more in-depth exploration on larger-scale future releases. ~ Paul Simpson