Lupe Fiasco – Samurai

Review

Lupe Fiasco's "Samurai" drops like a lyrical ninja on June 28, 2024, slicing through the industry noise. Pulling inspiration from an intriguing Amy Winehouse quote, she once called herself a "samurai battle rapper" in a message to Salaam Remi. From there, Lupe crafts a narrative, not just paying tribute to Winehouse's spirit, but diving deep into the gritty struggles of an artist's integrity and hustle.

Produced entirely alongside his homie Soundtrakk, this album marks a grand reunion since their last epic offering, "Drill Music in Zion." It's also a sentimental comeback with their manager Charley "Chill" Patton, last vibing with him during the era of "The Cool." The tracks embrace that suave, jazzy feel, delivering complex bars that stick to your ribs, especially with joints like "Mumble Rap" and "No. 1 Headband," which peel back layers on fame, fear, and that ever-chasing legacy.

Created at home during the height of COVID-19, "Samurai" is more than Matador flipping rhymes; it’s a timeline stitched with his creativity unboxed. Critics are vibing with Lupe on this one, highlighting the way he layers stories while weaving Amy Winehouse's essence amidst brewing themes of mortality. "Samurai" ain't playing—not just another notch on his discography but a milestone echoing Fiasco’s steadfast journey in the artform. - Jayden