Vince Staples has managed to create a sizeable buzz for himself while still maintaining a mystique about himself because all the focus is on his music. After impressing new and existing fans with the shortly sweet Hell Can Wait EP last year, the Long Beach representative pushes his discography 0 to 100 real quick with a double album for his studio debut on Summertime ’06.
The 21-year-old budding rap star has been able to leap several of his peers because of his ability to possess the right amount of balance in his raps to invite all listeners. As an unapologetic Naughty Nasty Gangster Crip but doesn’t overdo it with the thug ethos he obviously lived what others lie about. This is highlighted all throughout Summertime ’06, and keeps the album’s head above water during a time period when digesting 20 tracks on one offering could be considered a cardinal sin.
Digging deep on cinematic soundbeds provided by DJ Dahi, Clams Casino and predominately No I.D., Staples provides something for everybody without pulling an artistic muscle. Both entries to the “Ramona Park Legend” can be considered an autobiography of sorts and cuts like “Hang N’ Bang” and “Jump off the Roof” are layered in realism to solidify his street cred.
It’s the previously released “Señorita” and “Lemme Know” (featuring Jhené Aiko) that fully exemplify why Def Jam easily scooped him up with the quickness. Despite a hardened exterior, Staples is able to create accessible radio singles that still differentiate from the program director’s generic playlist.
Thanks to Taylor Swift, Summertime ’06 will now have a paid home on Apple Music when they both drop on June 30.
Listen to Summertime ’06 in full down below and pre-order on iTunes.
H/T: NPR
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Photo: Vevo
