Sundial
Having been familiar with Noname for quite some time now, I see her as one of the most talented female rappers in the industry. Naturally, my expectations were high for her latest album, especially considering the brilliance of "Room 25". After a five-year gap between releases, Noname returned with "Sundial" and she did not disappoint. As someone who was already intrigued and impressed by Noname, after her last project, I couldn't help but wonder in what direction she would take her music next. While she mostly stayed within her comfort zone, Noname delivered another consistent album from start to finish, showcasing her distinctive personality and charisma throughout. The production on "Sundial" is reminiscent of its predecessor, which, for the most part, is not a bad thing. However, part of me had hoped for some experimentation with new ideas and instrumentals. Nonetheless, the production remains absolutely stellar, with rich, lush, and extremely immersive instrumentation that enhances the listening experience. Noname's vocal performances are, as expected, incredible, with her unique voice and captivating presence shining through on every track. Her charismatic and unapologetic demeanor, coupled with her witty and bold attitude, make for a compelling listening experience. In terms of lyrical content, Noname covers a wide range of topics, from political themes and societal criticism to personal experiences and relationships. Despite the album's short 31-minute runtime, Noname manages to tackle these subjects in a digestible and cohesive manner, thanks to her brilliant lyricism and slick delivery style. However, there are a couple of nitpicks with the overall project, such as repetitive production choices on certain tracks and the album's relatively short duration. Nevertheless, "Sundial" is a tight project with no misses, offering a smooth and immersive jazz rap experience that showcases Noname's consistency and talent. While it may not present anything particularly new, it remains a solid effort that leaves listeners eagerly anticipating what the future holds for Noname's music.
NONAME - Sundial
RATING - 8.7/10
FAVORITE TRACKS - namesake, beauty supply
GENRE - Hip Hop, Rap, Afropop