Once you enter Barefoot River’s world, you may not want to leave it.

Barefoot River’s latest project, Only God Can Love Me, is a thoughtful, introspective, and technically sharp showcase of an artist deeply in tune with his purpose.

The Louisiana native has always been known for his straightforward, easy-to-digest flows and poetic lyricism, and this eleven-track project magnifies that essence while highlighting his growth as both a rapper and a thinker.

From the moment you press play, you can tell this album was built with intention. The production shifts from soulful to experimental, giving each track its own identity while maintaining cohesion through River’s grounded voice and perspective.

You’ll hear everything from chill R&B tones in “Content” and “I Don’t Know,” to old-school hip-hop grit in “Good Life, Wicked World,” and true boom bap textures in “Blackface.” The eclecticism in production perfectly complements River’s no-fear delivery and confident tone.

Lyrically, Only God Can Love Me is packed with substance. Barefoot River uses his steady, measured flow to touch on authenticity, perseverance, black empowerment, and staying the course through life’s turbulence.

If there’s one critique to make, it’s that Barefoot River’s delivery occasionally borders on too subdued — sometimes the tone doesn’t fully match the emotional weight of the message. On tracks like “I Don’t Know,” his words carry power, but his voice feels a bit restrained. Still, even at his most monotone, his lyricism remains compelling enough to carry the project forward.

Highlights like “Blue Eyes” (featuring Blu) showcase River’s ability to fuse heartfelt storytelling with crisp technicality, while “Chasers” brings emotional depth through a surprisingly soulful vocal performance. As for “Good Life, Wicked World,” it feels like one of the most complete records he’s made — sharp, reflective, and perfectly balanced.

Ultimately, Only God Can Love Me is a solid, purpose-driven body of work that captures Barefoot River’s duality — equal parts poet and realist. It’s the kind of album that rewards close listening, where the message is just as important as the music.

SONG BY SONG RATING

1. Mercy (4/5)

2. Blue Eyes (ft. Blu) (4/5)

3. Content (3/5)

4. Dead Man Walking (3.5/5)

5. Chasers (3.5/5)

6. I Don’t Know (4/5)

7. Scars & Strifes (3.5/5)

8. Blackface (4/5)

9. Good Life, Wicked World (4.5/5)

10. Love (4/5)

11. Fast & Pray (3.5/5)

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.