Bas – Too High To Riot (Album Review)

Bas proves he can cook up a whole musical feast without borrowing anyone else’s recipe.

TOP 5

5. Clouds Never Get Old

Who said Bas wasn’t a smooth operator? On “Clouds Never Get Old,” he brilliantly mixes romance, confidence, and braggadocious moments together.

However, one of the track’s biggest strengths is Bas’ vocal approach. His smooth singing adds another dimension to the record, while his energetic rap delivery prevents the song from becoming predictable. Combined with the R&B-inspired production’s unconventional pacing, the track becomes one of the clearest examples of Bas taking a major creative risk and pushing the boundaries of his sound on the project.

4. Dopamine (Ft. Cozz)

Am I a sick-ass for thinking two of the five best songs on this album are named after drugs?

“Dopamine” is built around a hypnotic, borderline haunting instrumental that creates the perfect atmosphere for Bas and Cozz to go to work. Both rappers attack the beat with relentless flows and undeniable intensity as they reflect on the lessons they’ve learned, the doubters they’ve encountered, and the satisfaction that comes with achieving their goals.

The contrast comes from the song’s lethargic chorus, which slows things down just enough to tie the entire record together beautifully.

3. Black Owned Business

Don’t you just love how Bas closes Too High To Riot? After spending much of the album showcasing his sharp lyricism, he ends things with a high-energy banger that also highlights his underrated singing ability.

Backed by a glitchy, bouncy beat with sun-soaked vibes, Bas delivers an emotionally charged chorus before switching gears into punchy, confident verses. Lyrically, he reflects on the lack of support he received while chasing his dreams before unapologetically telling his doubters, “f**k y’all,” now that he’s found success. It’s a track that perfectly balances pettiness, catchiness, and inspiration.

2. Methylone

I’ll be completely honest with you: I had no clue what methylone was before this track, and I have no clue what it is after.

The good news is that “Methylone” is an excellent track. Built around production that blends mechanical sound effects with a steady tempo and a bright atmosphere, the song creates a unique feeling that fits perfectly with a relaxed Sunday afternoon.

Bas delivers a passionate and infectious hook that immediately stands out while maintaining the confident presence that has become one of his trademarks. Lyrically, Bas reflects on the impact drugs have had on his life, the people around him, and the opportunities that could have been within reach. I love how he balances introspection with his usual cool delivery on his verses, making the track feel both personal and effortlessly smooth.

1. Night Job (Ft. J. Cole)

Let me start by saying that even though this song originally appeared on Revenge of the Dreamers II, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more complete record.

The chemistry between Bas and J. Cole feels completely organic and effortless. They trade verses before clashing seamlessly during the third verse. While Bas certainly kicks ass, Cole sounds completely locked in, attacking the track with an intensity that feels like the beat caught him off in traffic 45 minutes ago. What makes it even more interesting is how the production attempts to keep pace with both artists, balancing smoothness and chaos throughout. I don’t blame the beat for feeling uneasy.

SONG BY SONG RATINGS

1. Too Hot to Riot (4/5)

2. Methylone (4.5/5)

3. Dopamine (Ft. Cozz) (4.5/5)

4. Housewives (4/5)

5. Miles and Miles (N/A)

6. Live For (3.5/5)

7. Clouds Never Get Old (3.5/5)

8. Matches (Ft. Hics) (3.5/5)

9. Night Job (Ft. J. Cole) (4.5/5)

10. Ricochet (Ft. The Hics) (4/5)

11. Penthouse (4/5)

12. Black Owned Business (4.5/5)

OVERALL RATING

(B-)

One thing I will always respect is an artist who refuses to sound like a backup QB, and Bas embodies that throughout Too High To Riot.

Instead of approaching the project like he’s simply filling a role, he creates a world of his own, experimenting with different sounds ranging from smooth R&B-inspired moments to glitchy, left-field hip-hop production. That level of versatility shows an artist comfortable exploring different textures and trusting the final vision.

From a pure rapping standpoint, Bas proves he has the skill set to thrive across every style he touches. His flows are sharp, his delivery remains steady, and his distinct rap voice continues to be one of his biggest strengths. He also knows when to switch things up, incorporating melodic moments and thoughtful singing while allowing longtime collaborators like The Hics to add extra layers where needed.

Lyrically, Too High To Riot feels introspective without losing its relatability. Bas touches on familiar hip-hop themes like success, money, relationships, and ambition, but he approaches them with a grounded perspective that feels authentic rather than exaggerated. He isn’t chasing trends or trying to imitate his peers. Instead, he presents his own reality.

Overall, the album feels like a genuine introduction to Bas’ mindset, personality, and growth as an artist, even though it technically isn’t his first album.