Brandon Banks cover

Brandon Banks

Maxo Kream · 2019

47 min · 15 tracks · hip-hop

A raw exploration of street life intertwined with introspective storytelling, delivered over gritty beats and sharp lyricism.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    8 Figures — This track stands out for its vivid narrative detailing Maxo's journey from struggle to success, encapsulating the central themes of ambition and resilience prevalent throughout the album.
  • →
    Bissonnet — In this track, Maxo paints a stark picture of life on the streets, employing a rhythmic flow that mirrors the urgency of his storytelling while addressing systemic issues.
  • →
    Pray 2 the Dope — This song combines haunting production with poignant reflections on addiction and survival, showcasing Maxo's ability to blend personal narrative with broader social commentary.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's raw production and varied flows create a compelling narrative experience, though it may not resonate widely beyond its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of heavy bass and minimalist production, creating a gritty atmosphere that complements the storytelling.
  • Maxo Kream employs varied flows throughout the tracks, switching between rapid-fire delivery and slower, more reflective verses.
  • Several tracks incorporate skits or interludes that provide context to the narratives, enhancing the thematic depth of the album.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • introspective storytelling focus
  • wave-like pacing fluctuations
  • long, immersive listening sessions

Where this album fits

Career context
When 'Brandon Banks' was released in July 2019, Maxo Kream was building on the momentum from his previous mixtape, 'Punken,' which had established him as a significant voice in contemporary hip-hop. This album marks his first major label debut under RCA Records, showcasing a maturation in his sound and thematic depth.
Stylistic neighbors
Mick Jenkins· Saba· Isaiah Rashad

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Meet Again 5:20
  • 2 Bissonnet 2:23
  • 3 Change 3:47
  • 4 The Relays 2:57
  • 5 8 Figures 4:05
  • 6 She Live 2:49
  • 7 Drizzy Draco 2:35
  • 8 3AM 2:58
  • 9 Spice Ln. 3:22
  • 10 Murda Blocc 3:06
  • 11 Pray 2 the Dope 3:31
  • 12 Brenda 3:04
  • 13 Brothers 3:03
  • 14 Dairy Ashford Bastard 2:12
  • 15 Still 2:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata