IDK puts up outstanding rap verses in “BRAVADO + INTiMO.”
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TOP 5
5. SUPERNOVA (i)
Finally, a DMV native dedicates a track to NOVA (Y’all keep forgetting about us).
“SUPERNOVA” is driven by a slightly flipped version of Q-Tip’s “Let’s Ride” beat (yes, I hear it). Over this backdrop, IDK taps into his crooner side, treating us to gentle, highly infectious vocals and melodies. Lyrically, he expresses a desire to reach another galaxy with his lover, primarily because he feels they’re on the same page and that she has a body that can move mountains. Featured guest THEARTI$t echoes IDK’s sentiments, meeting him at the rim when it comes to fully indulging in some lovey-dovey themes. Overall, I think this track is beautiful, unique, and timeless.
4. SEE YOU AGAIN (B.i.)
You should’ve known this track would be good. Name one called “See You Again” that’s bad.
The standout feature of “SEE YOU AGAIN (B.i.)” is the pleasant vibe of the production. While it has enough tempo and rhythm for a rapper, its therapeutic quality makes it a fantastic listen. IDK’s numb tone and steady rap flow add depth as he reflects on the complexities of love influenced by family trauma. However, it’s his beautiful, traditional singing style that truly stands out, adding an extra layer to the track’s emotional appeal.
3. MiLES TRUMPET (i)
The beginning of this track had me wondering what IDK would sound like over a Griselda beat.
I might be one of the only people in the world who doesn’t love it when IDK sings. His usual style comes off as debonair, which makes me uncomfortable. However, in “MiLES TRUMPET (i),” IDK employs this style, and it’s much more palatable this time. Everything else—production, raps, and lyrics—shines. The production is smoother than Klay Thompson’s transition to the Mavericks, his raps are punchier than Draymond Green, and his lyrics perfectly capture the dilemmas of young love.
2. TiFFANY (B) (Ft. Gunna)
Gunna is the cool kid again.
“TiFFANY” sees IDK and Gunna indulging in some luxurious bragging, highlighting their international shopping sprees, extravagant rides, and lavish gifts for their chicks. What I love is that they make it clear that their hard work put them in this position.
While the track showcases IDK adapting to Gunna’s signature style with a slippery flow over a Turbo beat (which, Turbo is Gunna’s mans), Gunna truly takes the spotlight with his expectedly impressive performance.
I still think buying a chick a Crumbl cookie is big-time.
1. DENiM (B) (Ft. Joey Bada$$)
Since we’re on this topic, what’s your go-to store for buying jeans? (If you say Express, I might throw you out the window.)
IDK opens this track with the impactful line, “Sitting on cloud nine but it’s really my couch,” setting a confident tone. From there, he employs a slow flow to rap about stealing women and boasting about his clout. Joey Bada$$ eventually swoops in, delivering a gritty verse highlighting his journey from rags to riches, emphasizing his readiness to remove obstacles in his path. Their contrasting styles enhance the song’s dynamic, with IDK’s cockiness complemented by Joey’s more intense delivery. Literally, I can’t find a single thing wrong with this track.
SONG BY SONG BREAKDOWN
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OVERALL RATING
(B) (86%)
This is the one for IDK.
Production:
I love the production that we get in BRAVADO + INTiMO. The album is littered with jazz elements, soulfulness, cold hip-hop beats, and literally zero trap vibes (We need a break from that s**t). I loved pretty much all of them.
Guest Appearances:
Honestly, I didn’t feel the need for features on this album. IDK is strong enough to carry a track on his own, and he proves that throughout. However, I did enjoy Joey Bada$$’s verse on “DENiM (B)” and Gunna’s verse on “TiFFANY (B).” I didn’t even get to Conway The Machine’s verse in “SWiTCH (i).”
The Performances:
One of my biggest issues with IDK has always been his tendency to take the most complex route to success when rapping. He often complicates songs that could be straightforward, but in this album, he adopts a more focused approach. Particularly, I love that IDK knows when to put his head down and rap, and when to showcase his singing abilities without blurring the lines. I also appreciated the lyrical depth in his exploration of his upbringing, romantic relationships, and commitment to authenticity. This is some real s**t.
What Would I Change About This Album?
The title. While IDK’s core fans will appreciate the meaning behind BRAVADO + INTiMO and its connection to each track, casual listeners might not. Oddly enough, the title initially felt off-putting, suggesting a complicated theme like some of his previous projects. Luckily, the album itself is pretty straightforward. This raises the question: Should an artist cater exclusively to dedicated fans or adjust slightly for a broader audience? Striking a perfect balance could be the ideal approach.
The Biggest Reason You Should Listen To This Album:
This is easily my favorite IDK album. He keeps it simple, does plenty of rapping, and comes across as super relatable overall. When he limits the weirdo s**t, he’s a fantastic artist.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
