G-Eazy, also known by the moniker Young Gerald, broke out onto the hip-hop music scene in 2011 with some of his lesser known tracks from earlier mix-tapes. His first independent album, "Must Be Nice," was released in 2012 and received rave reviews and reached third place on the iTunes charts. G-eazy managed to do all this without the help of a major label. In 2013 we finally got to see what Young Gerald could achieve with all the resources of a major studio label. His first major album debut, "These Things Happen," topped the billboard charts at number 3. It would go on to sell 265,000 copies to date according to wikipedia. This list of impressive achievements brings us to present day. On Decemeber 4, G-Eazy dropped his latest album, "When It's Dark Out," and it is my humble opinion that this may be his strongest effort to date.
"When It's Dark Out" can be considered G-Eazy's sophomore effort since it is the second album he has released with a major label. Overall, the album is masterfully crafted. It manages to maintain classic hip-hop themes while also becoming introspective as you delve deeper into the album. G-Eazy's vocals are accentuated but not overshadowed by featured artists. Tracks like "Me, Myself & I" or "Everything Will Be OK," maintain the album's introspective bent while other tracks like "One of Them," are full of classic hip-hop themes that have been prevalent throughout the genre.
"Me, Myself & I," is located towards the beginning of the album and is a preview of the introspective nature of later tracks. In the track G-Eazy tackles the issue of fame and the effects it has had on his life. Asking questions about the loneliness of fame and success that many artists shy away from. This track was released prior to the full album release along with a fantastic music video on YouTube. If you have the time check out the music video before listening to the track. It is jarring to see an artist wrestle with issues that are outside of the mainstream but G-Eazy pulls it off expertly with his laid back hip-hop style. "Me, Myself & I" also features Bebe Rexha on the track covering the chorus.
Bebe Rexha is a fantastic addition to the track. Her melodic voice is perfect for the chorus of the track and separates rap breaks performed by G-Eazy. Another track that has a standout featured artist is Big Sean. He is featured on the track "One of Them." His performance is also quite enjoyable. "One of Them" also keeps with classic hip-hop themes about hustling and grinding in order to reach the top no matter what. Another classic hip-hop theme is the confidence and wholehearted belief in oneself that is required to get on stage and produce successful music. G-Eazy pays homage to classic themes while also managing to change to script and become more introspective.
As a whole, tracks that keep with the classic hip-hop themes alleviate the heavy pressure of the more introspective track and keep the album's lighter tone intact. Well done production insures that G-Eazy's vocals and influence are not overshadowed by featured artists. Overall, the album is well worth a listen for fans of the rap genre. The above factors all combine to produce a standout release that skillfully avoids the dreaded sophomore slump that some artists go through.
