Review
As the needle drops and the vinyl crackles to life, Lil Yachty's "Let's Start Here" transports listeners to a kaleidoscopic soundscape where psychedelic rock, funk, and soul intertwine. Far from the trap beats and pop sensibilities of his past, this fifth studio album sees Yachty embracing the spirit of Pink Floyd's "The Dark Side of the Moon" and the groove of Funkadelic. Patrick Wimberly's production, sprinkled with contributions from Jacob Portrait, SadPony, and Justin Raisen, paints a vivid picture of sonic experimentation.
From the opening bars of "The Black Seminole," with its epic drum fills and wailing guitar solos, the album wastes no time in establishing its ambitious scope. Standout tracks like "The Ride" and "Running Out of Time" showcase Yachty's growth as an artist, blending syrupy ballads with dance grooves that harken back to the '70s. His vocals, while not technically flawless, convey a newfound maturity and emotional depth, perfectly complemented by guest appearances from Fousheé and Daniel Caesar. As the album reaches its climax with the climactic "REACH THE SUNSHINE," it's clear that Lil Yachty has carved out a new path for himself, one that's as bold as it is captivating. While some critics may find the album repetitive or not entirely experimental, it's undeniable that "Let's Start Here" is a significant milestone in Yachty's journey as an artist. - Margo
