Skillz' Million Dollar Backpack is the Virginia-bred MC's third LP. This Koch diplomat may earn a promotion to an ambassador if Million Dollar Backpack gains respect within the hiphop community. The swagger Skillz exudes verges upon audacity. Yet, his talent warrants some of his self-adulation.
A finger methodically caresses a set of strings as Skillz opens his intro, while an exacting bass line penetrates the track. An effective description of various items held within one's backpack clenches the listener's attention, as Skillz' robotic voice controls the track.
"Where I Been" is infused with an infectious crisp snare that seizes interest. It is informative to those who are familiar with Skillz, but it does little for those who are not fans. The production and hook are what salvage this track. Freeway's distinctive voice injects "Don't Act Like You Don't Know" with the necessary ingredient that complements the strings and Skillz' assured flow. They attack the beat, pouncing as the synthesizer massages the drums. This amalgamation of these artists' effort is impressive.
The lead single, "So Far So Good," featuring Common, is hypnotic. The punctuating bass line showcases Skillz' concise lyrical delivery, while Common casts a lyrical shadow of his collaborator. "Sick" offers a bevy of frank comparisons that laud Skillz importance to the fraternity of hip-hop. A number of these comparisons tip-toe on the precipice of disrespect, for those listeners who were previously unaware of Skillz existence.
"(For Real) He Don't Own Me," an ode to independent women everywhere, instills a yearning to be free of any inhibitor. The insistent chants of "for real" work the track just as much as the dance-provoking drums. "My Phone" is a hyperbolic assertion of the legion of women in which Skillz has personal access. Warning! -- the monotonous subject matter may lull one into an uneasy nap. "Yeah You Know It" will be missed as one sinks into a comfortable sleep.
Once "Hold Tight," featuring Black Thought of The Roots, begins, listeners will appreciate the lyrical endorphins that reinvigorate interest. Who would have believed that Broadway and hip-hop were brothers? "Crazy World" is Skillz at the pinnacle of his creativity; the addictive Broadway-inspired hook is the catalyst of the track.
"I'm Gon' Make It" reveals Skillz' resolve to achieve success. The track is motivational as well as relatable to listeners. "Be Alright" celebrates contentment, while "Hip Hop Died" serves as a public service announcement to the community at large. The evolution of hip-hop is broached on this track.
"Preachin' To The Choir," a gospel-inspired track, urges listeners towards redemption and forgiveness. However, the abrupt ending of the final track leaves one feeling unsettled, if not yearning for more.
Million Dollar Backpack is a welcomed departure from the mass-produced singles that hip-hop has been slinging toward its fans. There are touches of genius sprinkled throughout the effort, even if the overall concentration is a bit diluted. Fans will enjoy the album. Put it on while driving, it will mellow you out.
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