“GNX” is Kendrick Lamar’s victory lap

By Charlie Cruz and Charlie Paul     12/3/24 11:13pm

Feature track: luther

Rating: ★★★★

Kendrick Lamar's newest album, “GNX,” is great — but is it a classic? Released without warning on a quiet Friday morning, the album's unexpected drop has sparked conversations across the globe. With no rollout, no teasers and no lead singles, Kendrick let the music speak for itself, delivering a project that feels like a love letter to West Coast hip-hop-crafted with the unique vision and depth only he can provide. 

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The world has been waiting for Kendrick to drop new music, and while he did not disappoint, is GNX his best work? No.

“Section.80” was his introduction, “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” his coming-of-age, “To Pimp a Butterfly” his exploration of humanism, “DAMN.” his raw anger and disappointment and “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers” his journey toward acceptance. Each of these albums is a phenomenon — some even flawless. Yet, as much as I admire “GNX,” I can't shake the feeling that it leans more toward a mixtape than a fully realized album.

Don't get me wrong — this is Kendrick's victory lap, and there's so much to love here. After crowning himself the victor of his rap beef with Drake, Lamar flat-out states he is the greatest. Even with small subliminals thrown at other rappers for not taking his side during the beef, Lamar’s latest project can only be described as a tribute. The production is stunning, the messages in several tracks resonate deeply and the overall vibe feels celebratory and bold. 

Unfortunately, while the album made me nod my head for hours, it doesn't feel like it will become a classic — it leaves me wanting more.

Songs like "luther" showcase Kendrick's ability to explore new territory, teaming up with SZA to deliver an R&B-infused track that is both melodic and irresistibly catchy. On "reincarnated,” his storytelling shines as he takes on the perspective of Lucifer seeking redemption, intertwining vivid imagery with hauntingly personal themes. Then there's "tv off," a high-energy anthem produced by DJ Mustard, which keeps the momentum alive with its infectious rhythm. 

Combined with the album's numerous West Coast influences — including Mariachi singer Deyra Barrera's stunning vocals layered with heavy strings and Latine musical elements — “GNX” is undeniably a great listen, rich with variety and moments of brilliance.

Still, “GNX” feels like a low-effort project for Kendrick — which says a lot, considering his "low effort" would easily be another artist's magnum opus. For instance, it's rumored that the beat for the title track "GNX" was handed to Kendrick just two days before the album dropped, and yet he delivered a polished, memorable track. 

At times, though, the album feels derivative of his own past work. "tv off" borrows heavily from the rhythm and style of "Not Like Us", while "gloria" seems to echo the melody his previous track "Father Time.” These songs are fantastic, no doubt, but they feel more like a treat from Kendrick — a snack rather than the full-course meal we've expected.

Clearly, “GNX” doesn't carry the conceptual weight of Kendrick's previous albums; instead, it stands as a tribute to the West Coast sound — a celebration of the region's history, influence and identity. It's an album that proves Kendrick's versatility, showing that deep lyricism isn't a necessity for him — it's a choice. Here, he flexes his ability to craft hits effortlessly, showcasing his mastery of rhythm, flow and production without needing layered metaphors or intricate storytelling.

But in many ways, “GNX” still feels like an appetizer, a tantalizing glimpse of what Kendrick is capable of when he lets loose. It's a project that whets the appetite, leaving listeners hungry for something more substantial. And perhaps that's the point — Kendrick has his audience hooked on his music, always craving his next move and his next masterpiece. With “GNX,” he offers just enough to remind us why we're hooked without giving away the complete picture of what's to come.

And that's why I genuinely believe there is more to come. “GNX” isn't the final chapter — it's a pause, a breath before the next groundbreaking moment. Kendrick has always been a visionary, and if this is what he delivers in his "low-effort" mode, then his next project has the potential to redefine the game again. Until then, we'll keep “GNX” on repeat, knowing the best is still ahead.

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