Album Review: The Alchemist – The Genuine Articulate
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Label: ALC
Released: September 20, 2024
Format: LP
"This is the kind of music you dive into when you want to escape the world's problems, offering a therapeutic effect, particularly on tracks like "Everybody's Favorite Uncle.""
Have you ever wondered what it takes to remain consistent and relevant for decades in the music industry? The Alchemist embodies a producer truly devoted to his craft, not for the rewards or accolades that may come with it, but for the lasting impact he creates. I've been a fan of The Alchemist for as long as I can remember, though I can't quite pinpoint when I began actively following his work. His collaborations with renowned rappers like Freddie Gibbs, Larry June, Earl Sweatshirt, and Curren$y, among others, drew me into his projects. After countless mixtapes and full-length studio albums, The Alchemist has made a significant contribution to Hip-Hop, earning respect as both a creative force and one of the sharpest minds in the industry—as a producer and, occasionally, as a rapper (which he demonstrates in "The Genuine Articulate").
Going into The Genuine Articulate, I had modest expectations, but I knew I was in for an auditory treat. I’ve always been deeply invested in The Alchemist's projects due to his innovative approach to music production. He possesses a rare quality that few producers achieve—his production style evokes a nostalgic, retro vibe, seamlessly blending 90s Hip-Hop with modern sounds to create timeless works. The album's opener, "Ferraris in the Rain" featuring ScHoolboy Q, was initially released as a single. It delivers a captivating blend of abstract raps and jazz-infused elements, with skits toward the end—something Alchemist excels at. The production is top-tier, perfectly complementing ScHoolboy Q, who gives a short yet memorable performance. Alchemist also takes the mic more often on this album, delivering punchy raps. While it's one of the rarest albums where he’s actively rapping, which I initially found unexpected, it left me wanting more—especially on tracks like "Something Light," where he proves he’s more than just a producer. The songwriting was so impressive I had to check Genius to confirm it was actually Alchemist rapping.
The Genuine Articulate is a prime example of what the human mind can create when nurtured in a balanced and inspiring environment. Many of the songs evoke the feel of a 80s James Bond soundtrack, with their cinematic quality. The smooth, seamless transitions elevate the listening experience, transporting it to new heights. This is the kind of music you dive into when you want to escape the world's problems, offering a therapeutic effect, particularly on tracks like "Everybody's Favorite Uncle." The production here is outstanding, with Alchemist once again handling both the writing and performance. The lyrics hit hard: "The nights are long and the days are short/ So many surfaces, the razor scored/ The target I point the laser toward/ It's really nothin' special."
Conway the Machine makes a legendary entrance on "Diego Maradona," delivering one of the album's standout highlights. The atmospheric instrumental wraps around him perfectly, giving Conway the space to showcase his top-tier lyricism. The hard-hitting bars evoke a gritty, gangsta rap vibe that cuts deep. This is easily one of the best beats I’ve heard this year. Alchemist and Conway seem to be in a lyrical duel, both striving to prove who’s the superior MC, making this track one of the most memorable moments on The Genuine Articulate. Larry June's feature on "Details" feels necessary and fitting, especially considering their 2023 joint project The Great Escape, which was a masterclass in what a top-tier producer and skilled rapper can achieve. That album was nothing short of a magnum opus in the realm of Hip-Hop.
The Genuine Articulate is a modern masterpiece, a level of production and artistry that requires more than the usual effort. The Alchemist stands in a league of his own, with no real competition—his only rival is himself. The features on the album were flawless, perfectly curated to maintain the album’s engagement and completeness. From Havoc and Action Bronson to ScHoolboy Q and Big Body Bes, each artist significantly contributes to the project’s overall appeal. This body of work will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the finest releases of the decade. Its concise 22-minute runtime offers the perfect balance of replay value, emphasizing quality over quantity. Even the album cover plays a crucial role in its allure, embracing artistry that enhances both its impact and memorability.
The Alchemist reaches yet another milestone with The Genuine Articulate. He has nothing left to prove, only to surpass his previous achievements. This album is crafted for those already familiar with his work, while also serving as an open invitation for new listeners to immerse themselves in Alchemist’s nostalgic soundscapes.
Standout Tracks: "Everybody's Favorite Uncle," "Diego Maradona," "Something Light," "Ferraris in The Rain"
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