Top tracks — play these first
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Talk of the Town — This track showcases Skyzoo's sharp wordplay and storytelling ability, effectively setting the tone for the album's exploration of identity and ambition.
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Make You a Believer — With its infectious hook and motivational message, this track exemplifies Skyzoo's knack for blending introspection with anthemic energy.
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Albee Square Mall — This song stands out for its vivid imagery and nostalgic references, providing a personal glimpse into Skyzoo's upbringing and the cultural significance of place.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong lyrical content and production, solidifying Skyzoo's place in contemporary hip-hop.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of soulful samples, with layered instrumentation that complements the intricate lyricism.
- Skyzoo employs varied rhyme schemes and internal rhymes throughout the tracks, enhancing the complexity of his storytelling.
- Several tracks include interludes or skits that provide context to the themes explored in the surrounding songs.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- reflective storytelling through lyrics
- urban narratives with personal touch
- intimate moments for late-night listening
- soulful production for focused sessions
- short, engaging tracks for variety
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer standalone hits over cohesion
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in early 2014, Barrel Brothers marked Skyzoo's collaboration with producer !llmind, following his critically acclaimed debut, A Dream Deferred. This album further established him as a prominent voice in contemporary hip-hop, showcasing his growth as both a lyricist and storyteller.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Joey Bada$$· Freddie Gibbs· Curren$y
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Make You a Believer
The verses shift from personal struggles to broader themes of perseverance and success.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 1:08
- 2 Talk of the Town 3:07
- 3 Make You a Believer 3:25
- 4 Tunnel Vision 3:29
- 5 Blue Yankee Fitted 4:00
- 6 All in Together 4:15
- 7 Triangle Offense 2:50
- 8 Movie Album (skit) 3:58
- 9 Albee Square Mall 4:19
- 10 The Hand Off 2:06
- 11 4 Bar Friday 2:24
- 12 Memorabilia 2:50
- 13 Rediscover 3:31
- 14 The Aura 4:21
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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