Big O – When It’s Not Said, But Done (Album Review)

Big O might just be the most chill producer alive, but don’t get it twisted—his new album When It’s Not Said, But Done speaks volumes without saying a single word.

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TOP 5 SONGS

5. Still Standing

I feel like I accomplished some s**t listening to this track.

“Still Standing” hits like a victory lap. Triumphant, energetic, and carrying a touch of vintage majesty, the track’s stomping rhythm and perfect tempo give you that unmistakable feeling—freedom, resilience, and triumph are just within reach.

4. A Bit Of Hope

Being a hip-hop addict, I had to add this track to the list.

“A Bit of Hope” is pure bliss for hip-hop heads. It leans into a classic boom-bap feel with a crisp, head-nodding knock, but then layers in warm, sunny vibes and a soulful sample that gives it that unmistakable Big O charm. It’s the kind of track that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly unique.

3. M!dnyght Ride

I’m out west now, so this track hit differently for me.

“M!dnyght Ride” strikes a perfect balance between chill and groovy, carrying a hip-hop bounce that feels like cruising through LA in a lowrider while the city lights flicker and heads turn. It’s got that quintessential midnight energy, and the standout saxophone adds a smooth, jazzy layer that elevates the whole ride.

2. New Found Joy

“New Found Joy” is probably the track I will play the most from this project.

I love how slick and understated “New Found Joy” comes across, with just the right touch of trap elements. Yet, like most tracks on this project, it still radiates a subtle glimmer of hope and soulfulness. You can easily imagine a rapper effortlessly riding this beat with some clever, smooth bars that complement its vibe perfectly.

1. A Better (Me)

Big O shows his bag is deep with this track.

Big O really taps deep into his jazzy bag on “A Better (Me).” The track features some stunning saxophone work that dances perfectly over a smooth, slightly glitchy backdrop. It feels bold, refreshing, and effortlessly cool — the kind of song that makes you want to pour a drink and just let the night play out. The sax alone deserves its own standing ovation, but the overall vibe is what truly seals the deal.

SONG BY SONG RATING

From the Ashes (Rebirth) (N/A)

M!dnyght Ryde (4.5/5)

What’s In The World (4/5)

Sounds of Broken Pieces (3.5/5)

A Bit Of Hope (4/5)

Still Standing (4/5)

New Found Joy (4.5/5)

Free Spirit (4/5)

Walking Into Next Week (Ft. Jeronimo G) (4/5)

A Better (Me) (4.5/5)

Relaxing My Emotions (3.5/5)

Til my Time Comes (4/5)

A Peace of Mind (4/5)

In The History Books (4/5)

Bigrodamous’s Closing Theme (4.5/5)

RGM RATING

(82%)

Big O’s When It’s Not Said, But Done is a masterclass in soulful, jazz-infused hip-hop production. The project moves like a sonic journey through emotion and rebirth — from the angelic opener “From The Ashes (Rebirth)” to the triumphant closer “Bigrodamous’s Closing Theme.” Across 15 tracks, Big O balances chill, reflective moods with bursts of energy and experimentation, creating a body of work that feels both cinematic and deeply personal.

Songs like “M!dnyght Ryde” and “New Found Joy” carry that West Coast nighttime bounce, while “A Bit of Hope” and “Still Standing” tap into the golden-era soul of boom-bap hip-hop. Big O isn’t afraid to stretch his sound either — “Sounds of Broken Pieces” blends abstract textures and percussive chaos, and “A Better (Me)” dives headfirst into smooth, daring jazz.

Throughout the project, there’s an undeniable sense of optimism and introspection. The beats don’t just move — they breathe, evoking feelings of growth, perseverance, and freedom. When It’s Not Said, But Done captures Big O at his most authentic: a producer who turns everyday emotion into rhythm and reflection, proving that music doesn’t always need to say much to mean everything.