Jackman. / Jack Harlow / April 28, 2023
- Joshua Yoo
- Jun 3, 2023
- 1 min read
It doesn’t feel like Jack Harlow needs any introduction at this point, given the intense level of attention both his music and public image have received over the past couple of years. But for many newer fans, the mixtapes that he started his career on are still relatively unknown, an era that this newest mixtape ‘Jackman.’ resembles strongly more for better than for worse.
With the majority of songs clocking in around 2 minutes, a lot of Harlow’s lyricism is sharper and more focused to fit the length. Especially on the bouncier production on tracks like “They Don’t Love It” and “Ambitious”, the energy and confidence of delivery exemplifies the main appeal of his sound. It’s also refreshing that thematically deeper moments on the record showcase some thoughtful introspection that hasn’t really surfaced in his music up to this point.
Not every track is tight and concise, with some feeling like loose ends with flimsy hooks and melodies (“No Enhancers”). There’s an occasional susceptibility to questionable and cringey one-liners as well, far fewer than his previous album but still in the bloodstream of wordplay.
Thus, ‘Jackman.’ is likely to be a better introduction to new listeners than the debut that got the most attention. This is a tighter, more diverse and technically sound rap project that shows as much charisma as its artist.
Highlight(s): Ambitious, They Don’t Love It, Gang Gang Gang, Denver, Blame On Me
Lowlight(s): No Enhancers, Questions
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