Ace Tha Don recently dropped the album Focus with six heavy tracks that took fans back to the days when rappers actually rapped.
The six track project resonated with most Hip Hop fans as it brought back the nostalgia of what rap used to be.
The first track Alright Alright reminded me of what an upcoming uptown rapper could do on a microphone. Ace is not an upcoming artist but on this one he embodies the energy that normally comes with being in that space. The track sets the tone for the entire album as it reminds us of his prowess on the microphone.
The second track features Young Haze and has that trap feel about it. Haze does well on the hook/chorus and also starts off well with the first verse. Obviously, the accent takes you to the ‘Kilimani nigga’ zone. Fast to the Bag explores the concept of what rappers like, bands. Ace Tha Don comes on the last verse still maintaining the energy that was on the first track. Rap like you mean it.
The third track, yeah that Spanish on the chorus brought out a very different but also good feel about the track. Razones Pa Quererte with Bella tones down the initial tracks as the hardcore feel goes down.
The track is more soulful especially with Bella on it.
iRap goes back to what was being toned down on track number three. Here Ace delivers like his life depends on it. Been the bomb. Blow up. Having a blast. This one dropped bars on bars on bars!! Classic like the flu shot.
TO THE CITY. The reason why it’s in capital letters is because of the amount minutes pumped into this one. The rappers too. It was a roaster of rappers that delivered properly. Kevin Grands headlining. Young Haze did justice on the chorus. Ambia wasomi this is one for the books.
Victator!
Tulia came through fast. Light weight but still stepped up like the track demanded. She did not stutter at all going up against the testosterones on the track. The apex predator also made a cameo on this and did not disappoint. Ni mras na havuti nduku! HR the Messenger has a way of delivery akin to J Cole. Shukid? Legendary flow as always.
It was also nice to hear from Trabolee. Socrates in his element. It’s been a while since we’d heard from him. Jakkquil just fresh of Khali Cartel 5 maintained the same hunger and delivery that he showed on the cypher.
I SMOKE YOUR TOP 5. From Khali Cartel pioneer the OG himself. This was prime rap. This was probably one verse that just showed how good he is. Ace going in last made him deliver one of the coldest flows on the album. He did just that!
To the city as the outro track finalized the album in a way that I expected it to be done. Paying homage to his whole journey. 12 years in the game. Syllables and bars coming in smooth. He went back to his original form and unpacked. Lingo switches was a nice touch too.
This is one dope album. Highly recommended.