Ab-Soul has bars for days in “SOUL BURGER.”
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TOP 5
Honorable Mention. All That (Ft. JasonMartin & Thirsty P)
“All That” straddles the line between boring and exciting more than Diddy straddles the line between evil and diabolical. While I find the dull chorus to be a bit of a letdown, the verses from Ab-Soul and Thirsty P do feature impactful bars, fun flows, and dope punchlines. As for the production, it blends both vibes (Which is either a good or bad thing). Overall, compared to the other tracks on this album, this one ended up being one of my favorites.
5. The Sky Is Limitless
Real ones need to know that “Sky’s The Limit” by Biggie is one of the greatest rap tracks ever.
In “The Sky Is Limitless,” Ab-Soul puts a subtle twist on Biggie’s classic “Sky’s The Limit.” The track features a faint echo of the original beat, and Blxst’s chorus cleverly incorporates parts of 112’s hook (BTW: Blxst’s hook is the best thing about this track. S**t, it might be the best thing about this album). Ab-Soul acknowledges Biggie’s influence while reflecting on his journey in music. When he uses that alien-like effect, I’m not a fan; but when he dives into pure rap, I’m all in.
4. Squeeze 1st 2
Ab-Soul must’ve eaten a computer processor before dropping this track.
In “Squeeze 1st 2,” Ab-Soul delivers some of the best bars I’ve heard this year. Over this hypnotic, jazz-inspired beat, Ab taunts his competition, showcases his grandiosity, and practically confirms that he is woke to all the bulls**t going on in the world today. What I find very interesting about the track is how Ab stomps all over it, spitting with a slow-burning style designed to make his haters die a very slow death. Who are his haters? Let me know when you figure it out.
3. B.U.C.K.O. Jr
This is how I want you to drive, Ab-Soul!
Ab-Soul definitely raps like the rent is due in “B.U.C.K.O. Jr.” Backed by an action-packed trap beat that I can definitely see being played in the background of a YouTube video describing how hard Toronto rappers go, Ab-Soul talks his s**t fearlessly, speaking on the illegal women he’s pulling, the fancy-ass watches he’s rocking, and the reckless life he seems to be enjoying. I love the flow he employs, the clever punchlines he dishes out, and most importantly, the urgency he raps with.
2. California Dream
Ab-Soul and Vince Staples put up 30-point double-doubles on this track.
It’s pretty funny how Vince Staples and Ab-Soul can sound so laid-back, even bored, while still delivering solid rap verses. In “California Dream,” Vince’s casual tone matches the track’s chill instrumental as he reflects on the hardships of growing up in his neighborhood. Ab-Soul, on the other hand, flows smoothly while sharing his deep connection to California. Kammm Carson also impresses by effortlessly spitting bars over a beatless outro. This s**t is another walk in the park for them, huh?
1. Crazier (Ft. JID)
The mic probably ended up with a torn ACL after this track was made.
In “Crazier,” JID and Ab-Soul deliver verses about all the support they have given their homies, their readiness to shoot in any given situation, and their elite rap abilities. The track is underscored by a simplistic, ritualistic beat that adds a sense of impending action. JID tackles the beat with precision, breaking it down in a controlled, robotic style, while Ab-Soul takes a more expressive, punchline-heavy approach, sounding like the lively guest at a formal event who’s had a few too many drinks. I love how their styles mesh.
SONG BY SONG BREAKDOWN
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OVERALL RATING
(C+) (77%)
Ab-Soul’s love for making music seems to be fully back.
Production:
Ab-Soul takes an ambitious approach to production on Soul Burger, experimenting with a wide array of beats. He moves from jazzy, chill sounds to classic West Coast vibes, even reworking familiar beats to suit his unique style. The variety feels like he pulled beats from a hat. This adventurous production choice showcases his versatility, but the cohesion can feel unpredictable.
Guest Appearances:
Soul Burger features a diverse lineup, spotlighting both mainstream and underground artists. The album includes verses from big names like Vince Staples, Doechii, Ty Dolla $ign, and JID, while also showcasing emerging talents like JasonMartin and Asia. The biggest surprise is Lupe Fiasco, who delivers some outstanding lines on the track “Peace.”
The Performances:
When Ab-Soul focuses purely on rapping, his verses reach an incredible level, showcasing his top-notch punchlines, confidence, and authenticity. However, on Soul Burger, he often diverts into singing or experimenting in ways that don’t fully play to his strengths. Lyrically, his realness is consistently shown as he tackles the topic of meeting expectations, grinding to make a good life for himself, and fighting his trials and tribulations.
What Would I Change About This Album?
This album has its share of filler tracks, with Ab-Soul experimenting in ways that don’t always hit the mark. Some styles feel out of place for him—like “Go Pro” with Ty Dolla $ign, which felt off. I also found myself wishing the songs picked up momentum faster and had a smoother transition between singing and rapping. While the intent to explore different sounds is clear, the execution sometimes falls short of the album’s potential.
The Biggest Reason You Should Listen To This Album:
Despite any criticisms, this album is filled with impressive rap moments. Ab-Soul delivers plenty of wisdom, brilliantly crafted punchlines, and a level of confidence that demands admiration. His skillful bars and sharp lyricism shine across several tracks, making for some memorable highlights.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
