After a 5 year hiatus, we finally have, At Some Point You Mature. This collection of tracks takes listeners on a captivating journey of growth, introspection, and self-discovery. With his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Ahzay delivers an album that resonates deeply with its audience. We are definitely excited to receive this gift, because as Ahzay says at the top of the record, “it’s been too long…”
Score: 8.8
Instrumentation: 8.2
Lyrics: 7.1
Delivery: 9.5
Production: 8.5
Cohesion: 8.0
Creativity: 7.9
The album opens with a high energy and introspective track, “Whole Notha Vibe.” Ahzay’s wide range of vocals inflections and tones immediately draw you in, setting the tone for the rest of the album. He’s letting us know that he’s a new man and new artist. Ahzay adds on to this by bringing us back to the “Diamond Exterior” series. This track is accompanied by a fan favorite feature with the amazing vocalist, Calvin Little, Jr.
As the album progresses, Ahzay effortlessly transitions between different musical styles, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He delivers on hip-hop tracks with large bravado like “Scoreboard” and “Ya Feel Me?!” On songs like “Prove My Love”, “… What’s the Issue?”, and “How Can I Help,” we receive fusions of R&B, Afrobeats, and Trap-Soul, with smooth melodies and infectious hooks that will have you moving your feet and singing along.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Here We Are” featuring fellow Frederick penman, Stitch Early. As they look back on how far they’ve both come in life, their vulnerability shines through. Traveling roads not built for everyone, he makes it clear that “it’s time to see whose really ‘bout this”. Both MC’s delves into losses, addressing personal struggles and the lessons learned along the way. The raw emotion in their voices are palpable, leaving a lasting impact on the listener.
One of the most impressive aspects of Ahzay’s artistry shown on At Some Point You Mature is his ear for talent. The list of feature collaborations adds a great sense depth and diversity to the album. Those featured are Alonda Rich, Sammyvoa, Karamore-Jong, Tàiyò, Demetrius, DaJohn, Virgil Greens, Brian Cassette; and as previously mentions, Calvin Little Jr and Stitch Early.
The production on the album is top-notch, with each track expertly crafted to enhance Ahzay’s vocals and lyrical storytelling. The instrumentation is rich and layered, incorporating elements of such wide genres, creating a unique and captivating sound.
If there is one minor criticism, it would be that a few tracks on the album feel slightly out of place in terms of cohesiveness, but that’s simple because he covers such wide array of sounds. This point doesn’t at all detract from the overall quality and impact of the album.
In conclusion, Ahzay’s At Some Point You Mature is a remarkable musical journey that showcases his growth as an artist and as an individual. With his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and diverse musical styles, he has created an album that will resonate with listeners on a deep level. With this album, Ahzay has shown himself as one that can’t be boxed in as a “local artist,” because what he’s accomplished has reached much further from where he’s started.
“These days the views’ much different…”
At Some Point You Mature is available on all streaming platforms.
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*WESTEND Music Reviews are powered by OUT40 and conducted by the OUT40 Team.*