Voir Dire

I love this album so much, both artists have been among my favorites for years, and to get a body of work so consistent and wonderful is truly a gift, their collaborations have always delivered. Al leaves the production sparse throughout, allowing Earls words to shine and they certainly do. I appreciate how sentimental and vulnerable Earl is on this album. This is one I find myself returning to frequently, and something that captures the essence of both artists perfectly.
The albums intro track announces the duo perfectly, the sample then earl then the drums. Starts off super strong, doesnt overstay its welcome and gets everything in motion. Second track Vin Skully has a beat that sounds like putting a snake in a trance, Im obsessed with the shaker in the background. Sentry with MIKE is next, this one is so impressive creatively, I dont know how Earl finds that pocket, but it feels effortless. The lack of percussion is so ominous. MIKEs verse glides so smoothly Ive been a huge fan of his recently, need to listen to more of his stuff. Track four Heat Check has one of my favorite instrumentals on the album, earl sounds super laid back here and the vocal chops hit. The transition into the start of Mancala is glorious, the sample on this song is spellbinding. Vince Staples is one of my favorites as well, this is such a different type of instrumental to hear him on and it sounds great. Chicken sandwich and carne asada burrito as the intro to 27 Braids comes on is poetic. 27 Braids is one of earls best songs ever. The whole thing is impossibly smooth and so well collected. I really enjoy the scattered sound on Mac Deuce, just a classic strange alchemist beat and some of earls funniest bars. Track eight we get to Sirius Blac, I love the instrumental on this one as well, and the shout to loose change is great. Dead Zone is next, one of the longer cuts on the album. I like this one but I dont love it, very haunting and it definitely feels like the album cover looks. The Caliphate is one of the greatest songs ever made. I love and hate that snare, the yells in the background are perfect, once again Vince delivers. I love this verse so much. Free the Ruler, the eleventh and final track, is such a fantastic send off. Wraps the album up in a neat bow and gently wanders away.