REVIEWED: Lil Yachty – Let’s Start Here
As polarizing as can be, Lil Yachty has never been one to conform to the rules of Hip-Hop “traditionalists.” His frequent ability to take creative risks as a musician have kept him at the forefront since 2016 when many first heard him on DRAM’s smash hit, Broccoli; An unforgettable record that hoists fond memories of adolescence. This moment would catapult Boat into another stratosphere.
Appearing on the 2016 XXL Freshman cover raised many eyebrows across the landscape of music; Featured with Anderson .Paak, 21 Savage, Lil Uzi, G Herbo, Kodak Black, Dave East, Denzel Curry, Lil Dicky & Desiigner, this class was questioned by many but has defied odds and evolved into one of XXL’s best. Yachty’s contributions can merely be understated as he’s stood the test of time with a strong sense of versatility that’s separated him from his peers.
A unique approach; Yachty’s career is experimentation at its finest. The light-hearted elegance of the Lil Boat trilogy, a dynamic display of lyricism from Nuthin 2 Prove, a world-renowned, boastful array of SoundCloud “Concrete Leaks” and an energetic excitement from Michigan Boy Boat which has shifted the spotlight onto a state whose now at the forefront of music’s present-day sound.
With every step he’s made being worth a conversation…Let’s Start Here.
The latest installment into a musician who is jarring to be recognized as “more than a rapper.” This is due in part to his beginnings of being recognized in the prime SoundCloud era where artists were gaining notoriety for mumbles and a futuristic approach that was thought to be a stain on Hip-Hop’s presence.
His latest project however, has been the topic of conversation since it’s release due to a substantive rock influence, elegant melodies and vigorous approach to push barriers.
As stated before, Yachty’s career has been a consistent experiment since its infancy so witnessing an innovative body of work such as Let’s Start Here shouldn’t be as much a surprise as it has been. There are a multiple moving pieces playing a pivotal role as listeners discover a breath of fresh air.
Heavy influences of Pink Floyd, Nirvana and Paramore are felt throughout with the swift yet ultra-gritty nature rock has presented itself with. An occupancy of guitar strings, bolstering drums and appealing vocals are radiant which allowed Yachty to compliment a tasteful autotune with a variety of instrumentation.
The ability to get lost in the euphoric charm of Let’s Start Here is recognizable but the lyricism conveyed is potent and aids in showcasing the musicianship of Yachty. Records such as the ride-, pRETTY, IVE OFFICIALLY LOST ViSION!, sAy Something & The Alchemist display a vast range of vocals that assist in narrating the overall story.
He enlisted the help of Fousheé, Teezo Touchdown, Justine Skye, Diana Gordon & Daniel Ceasar to colorfully showcase his artistry.
It was announced a few days prior the album debuted at #1 on multiple charts. A high honor for a talent whose had to prove himself to the masses.
Music is supposed to stir conversation and cause controversy. It keeps curiosity alive and listeners on their toes; Never knowing what to expect. This album does exactly that. The ability to take risks as an artist should never be frowned upon especially in a market that many deem as “over saturated.”
Let’s Start Here has its flaws as Yachty attempts to bend genres but the album is filled with noteworthy moments, an exciting array of instrumentation and artistry that makes this a prominent album in Lil Yachty’s catalog. Ultimately, an emphatic way to begin the year.
