4 real

"4 REAL" by 454 evokes a layered and nostalgic feeling, blending a synthy 80s vibe with a modern twist, resulting in an effortlessly breezy and youthful experience that transports listeners to a different soundscape. Its simplicity and ease contribute to its appeal, making it one of my favorites of the year. The album's captivating beats, catchy rapping, and enjoyable flow create a vibe perfect for a relaxed good time. Despite its many strengths, the mixtape's youthful exuberance can occasionally feel overwhelming, and the transitions between verse topics sometimes appear haphazard, as if decisions were made without much staging. However, this hasn't diminished my enjoyment of "4 REAL." As a mixtape, it prioritizes vibe over structure, which allows for a more fluid and relaxed listening experience. 454's modest breakout work excels in creating an atmosphere that feels both ethereal and surreal, immersing listeners in a dreamy soundscape. The song structure remains exciting despite the repetitive nature of speeding up and slowing down the same songs, adding to the mixtape's unique charm and creating a cohesive yet dynamic listening experience. The runtime is perfect, ensuring that the album never wears out its welcome. This self-produced debut stands out for its unique sound, capturing an amazing feeling of discovering an artist doing something so distinct early in their career. The entire project is aesthetically sound and sonically succinct, maintaining a consistent energy without straying from its core essence. While "4 REAL" could benefit from more diversity, such as an energetic trap anthem or an ambient pluggnb track, it remains a solid mixtape that deserves recognition alongside some of the great recent albums. This potential for growth is evident in 454's more recent work, "FAST TRAX 3," where he expands on his sound and showcases his evolving artistry.

454 - 4 REAL

RATING - 8.4/10

FAVORITE TRACKS - ANDRETTI, HEAVEN, FACE TIME

GENRE - Rap, Cloud, Plugg, Trap, Ambience