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Mr. Cool and deadly, the one and only big Skrapz, returns with the 'Reflection' LP. This is the official follow-up to 'Be Right Back' his last release in 2021. There's always anticipation behind a Skrapz release, but there's an extra layer of excitement around this one. We know he's still got it, can't lose it, but will we have another classic for our collection? I had to find out the answer for myself.
Straight away, we're greeted by Skrapz's immaculate taste in beats; he truly has one of the best ears in the game. Rarely does he choose an instrumental he can't command in his laidback manner. You always want to play Skrapz in the car, blast it loud, and let everyone know when you're vibing to Skrapz—that's just a fact. Skrapz knows his sound, he knows his lane! His approach is to let the music bleed with his pain and experience. The first five songs on this album demonstrate this perfectly—'Introduction' is a masterclass, 'Cuban Links' blends his and Nines' laidback gangster styles with the energy and melody of DBE in great fashion, and 'Slippery Slope' brings out the best in M Huncho while Tiggs kills another feature—truly unstoppable.
Skrapz brings the spotlight back to himself on 'Slim Chance', where a haunting piano melody sets the menacing stage for Skrapz to narrate navigating the streets and the law. The verses are calculated, and the lyrics truly reflect the 'Reflection' the album title promises. Skrapz has matured; he now sees the impact of his environment and discusses it from a more observational standpoint rather than the usual 'main character' perspective we're accustomed to. Following 'Slim Chance' is 'Normal', a track more in line with his signature style. With an ice-cold delivery and a flow that demands head nods, Skrapz's lyrics are braggadocious and self-assured. He describes himself in a way Marvel would portray Wolverine or Spiderman—Skrapz, the hood's hero, the one and only.
So, how does the hood hero sound next to the trench hero? 'Longevity' answers this question as we see Skrapz featuring Potter Payper. I'll be honest - I wasn't a fan of the chorus, but both verses were up to par. This beat brought out a calmer cadence in Potter than we're used to hearing, and it was refreshing to hear him step into Skrapz's world. For me, it's a filler track; it doesn't do much to push the album forward, but it doesn't harm it either.
'Need A Break' sees Skrapz return to his reflections with heartfelt and considerate lyrics. Skrapz shows vulnerability, in a gangster way, of course, and Bellah adds exactly what she's supposed to. I really wish Bellah was around when he did the '80’s Baby' mixtape; she would've elevated some of those songs to anthem level.
'Marathon' isn't hitting the mark for me; it's reminiscent of when Fredo dropped 'Netflix & Chill' or when Nines did 'I See You Shining'—good songs, but a bit too cookie-cutter for my taste. Skip!
'I'm Yours' is definitely catering to the ladies, and I respect that. Skrapz has a substantial female following alongside his male fans. However, I skipped the part where he talks about his hood standing up — Pause.
Next up is 'Motivational Speech', another reflection track where Skrapz offers advice from a bird's eye view. George The Poet holds it down and delivers effortlessly, but this one doesn't quite hit the mark for me either. It feels a bit preachy, if I'm being honest.
Alright, 'Line of Fire pt 8'! The one we've all been waiting for — I almost skipped straight to this when I saw the tracklist. Ice City truly is the UK's supergroup of road men who can really rap. Like a UK Wu-Tang Clan, each member brings their own style and authenticity to their bars. Every 'Line Of Fire' installment has been a 10/10, and this one is no exception. The production also deserves a shoutout because it's simply too gully. Laidback yet loud in its own way, this track was definitely worth the wait! Now, 'Rocking Chair' featuring Nines — this just sounds like it's going to be epic. It's the UK equivalent of Drake featuring Lil Wayne, the two most lyrically gifted members of their group going back to back. This song is exactly what it says on the tin — our two hood heroes exchanging words as they sit back in their rocking chairs, reflecting on their lives. They both own the beat and show exactly why we rate them equally, yet differently.
Alright, we're reaching the end of the album now. The headline track 'Reflections' features Tiggs Da Author. It's a different beat than what we're used to hearing Skrapz on, more of a 'Wretch Type Beat', but that's no obstacle for him. Skrapz effortlessly floats on it like any other beat, delivering a refreshing sound. It almost gives us a glimpse of what a radio-friendly Skrapz could sound like! I'm into it! Though, it's a bit shorter than I would've liked; another verse or a Wretch feature would've been killer, right?
'Reflections' is followed by 'Outro', and we know what to expect here — a classic rideout freestyle. Skrapz shows off his skill and charisma, closing the album out in his signature style.
Overall, I think this is a solid release from Skrapz. It has that instant playback value, like all of his music. It's easy listening without being dumbed down or overly commercial. It's raw and pure. We've grown up with Skrapz, and fortunately, he's grown up with us. There's a more mature approach to his writing, but he still retains that youthful charm in his delivery that we're accustomed to. Skrapz solidifies himself as one of the best to do it! I’m scoring it 9/10!!!