Maxo Kream stays authentic with “Personification.”
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TOP 5 SONGS
5. Talkin In Screw (Ft. That Mexican OT)
“I be on lean like fat n***a shoes.”
The more I listen to artists like Maxo Kream and That Mexican OT, the more I notice the similarities in the sounds from Texas and California. “Talkin In Screw” is powered by a beat that channels those classic Cali vibes, reminiscent of an old Dr. Dre track. Maxo and OT have no trouble establishing their dominance over the beat, both delivering tongue-twisting flows and big-boy lyrics that showcase their love for getting high, whooping ass, and cruising in cars that look like Skittles. Overall, this track is incredibly impressive.
4. Higher Than Ever (Ft. Rob49 & Skilla Baby)
Does Rob49 only rap over Rob49-type beats?
And the award for the most explosive track on this album goes to “Higher Than Ever.“ The song rides on one of those signature, high-energy beats beloved by Detroit and New Orleans negroes. Rob49 kicks things off with an outlandish chorus and verse, flexing about popping pills and being selective with women. Maxo Kream follows up with a slick verse, experimenting with flows, challenging his enemies, and flipping chicks. Finally, Skilla Baby wraps it up with a gritty, no-nonsense verse that cements him as an authentic street figure who’s not here for the drama. Together, this trio proves to be a dynamic powerhouse.
3. Smokey (Ft. BigXthaPlug)
Day-Day > Smokey (If you know, you know).
I’m not sure I’ve ever heard a track dedicated to Smokey from Friday before. This is history. In “Smokey,” Maxo Kream plays Big Worm (the drug dealer), while BigXthaPlug plays Smokey, the junkie. Based on the lyrics, Maxo probably grabbed X by the collar for not having his money on time.
Beyond its highly entertaining plot, this track showcases one of Maxo Kream’s most animated verses. On top of that, the chemistry between Maxo and BigXthaPlug is stupendous!
2. Cracc Era (Ft. Tyler, The Creator)
These two crazy-ass Nigerians went off here.
“Cracc Era” is driven by a typical quirky Tyler, The Creator-like beat that sounds gassier than me after I eat three chalupas from Taco Bell. Over this production, Tyler, The Creator and Maxo Kream lay down two hard-hitting verses highlighting their flashy lifestyles, imposing presences, and reflections on their past criminal activities. Tyler delivers his signature dark, villainous style, while Maxo approaches it with his usual laid-back style and effortless delivery.
1. Bang The Bus
Yes, I realize I am basic for thinking “Bang The Bus” is the best track on this album.
True to its title, “Bang The Bus” is nasty as f**k. In the track, Maxo Kream expresses a willingness to smash chicks anywhere and anyhow. For instance, he brings up experiences of getting laid by women who aren’t exclusively his, even in buses that are more crowded than a Duke basketball game.
“Bang The Bus” is driven by a dreamy Jersey club beat with a compelling tempo (kudos to Evilgiane for the production). I appreciate how Maxo delivers his verses with a nonchalant demeanor and a steady flow, only pausing to assert his name and catch his breath. Overall, the song’s style is well-suited for clubs that cater to those unafraid to break a sweat.
RATINGS FOR EVERY SONG
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RGM RATING
(C+) (79%)
Production:
I found it interesting how Maxo Kream diversified the beats on Personification. The album features a mix of Jersey club beats, club-ready vibes, Texas-inspired sounds, and funky-ass Tyler, The Creator-style production. Thankfully, he steers clear of trap and trippy beats. What makes this especially intriguing is that Maxo tends to have one core sound, so hearing him adapt it across such varied backdrops was a refreshing experience.
The Performances:
Here’s the tricky part: while Maxo Kream doesn’t switch up his flow or tone much on this album, everything else he brings to the table is top-notch. He delivers solid choruses, sharp punchlines, and vivid depictions of the sketchy street life he’s entrenched in and can’t seem to escape. That said, I think people focus on flow switches way too much.
Guest Appearances:
My favorite guest appearance on the album has to be Denzel Curry—he absolutely slid on “Triggaman,” which, given the title, was no surprise. Other features also delivered, with Tyler, The Creator, That Mexican OT, and Rob49 standing out. I really appreciate how Maxo diversified the lineup, collaborating with artists from Cali, Florida, New Orleans, and, of course, repping Houston, Texas, baby!
What Would I Change About This Album?
As an extremely casual Maxo Kream fan, I have to admit: the street-life narratives aren’t entirely my vibe. They’re undeniably intriguing, but I personally find Maxo more entertaining when he’s having fun on the mic. Tracks like “Bang The Bus” and “Higher Than Ever” stand out for that reason. Of course, this is just a preference thing—don’t mind me!
The Biggest Reason You Should Listen To This Album:
It’s a solid album with a smooth flow, compelling storytelling, a balanced mix of explosive and laid-back moments, and what I think is a strong, satisfying performance from Maxo.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
