Jack Harlow – Thats What They All Say

Review

Jack Harlow's debut album, "Thats What They All Say," dropped on December 11, 2020, and instantly grabbed the spotlight. With features from heavyweights like Lil Baby, Big Sean, Chris Brown, Adam Levine, EST Gee, Bryson Tiller, DaBaby, Tory Lanez, and the legendary Lil Wayne, the project packs a serious punch. Adding a touch of legacy, Static Major makes a posthumous appearance, further enriching the album's texture. Named as a response to the skeptics, Harlow’s title reflects his resilience and awareness, embodying his confident stride despite the noise.

From southern trap vibes in "Rendezvous" and "Face of My City" to the smooth R&B ambiance in "Luv Is Dro," this album is a sonic journey through Harlow’s Louisville roots and beyond. Critics had mixed feelings; Regency Game Music’s Quincy hyped Harlow’s punchlines and lyricism but craved more thematic diversity. Rolling Stone’s Danny Schwartz gave props for putting Louisville on the rap map but threw a Drake-style comparison in the mix. The Guardian’s Kate Hutchinson appreciated his introspective takes on fame and privilege, while Imogen Lawlor of Vinyl Chapters lauded the album’s maturity. Commercially, "Thats What They All Say" made a strong debut, hitting number five on the Billboard 200 with solid streaming numbers. Certified platinum by November 2021, Harlow's debut is a bold statement of his talent and promising future in the game. - Jayden