Future – Future 2LP

Description

The first of two chart-topping albums released back to back in consecutive weeks,Future‘s eponymous LP is the extroverted party-starting sibling toHNDRXX‘s introverted contemplator. Here, production is the star, adding excitement and variety toFuture‘s reliable, trap-star flow.808 Mafia‘sSouthsideis at the top of the pack, with a hand in at least half of the album’s tracks. Among his highlights, “Good Dope” helpsFuturemake the trap sound as addictive as anyMigostrack; “Zoom” bends sound waves atop a warped hang drum-sounding sample, and “POA” rides a thrilling melody that sounds like a dulcimer on lean. “Draco” glitters with a spacy loop provided byDJ Spinz, whileZaytovenclosesFuturewith two of the most confessional songs — perhaps a direct prelude to what’s found onHNDRXX— including “When I Was Broke,” a touching ode to his ride-or-die that features tinkling piano and distorted dub. Album highlight “Mask Off” employs a sample ofTommy ButlerandCarlton Williams‘ “Prison Song,” the flute melody elevatingFuture‘s rags-to-riches tale withMetro Boomin‘s effective production. AlthoughFuture‘s typical predilection for sex, drugs, and crime still rules, the inspired production onFutureat least makes for an interesting listen. Taken together withHNDRXX, it becomes more of a fascinating peek into the rapper’s psyche, showing multiple sides toFuture‘s personality and his struggles with his trap past and his self-imposed destiny to become a futureHendrix. -All Music Guide