Drill Music in Zion cover

Drill Music in Zion

Lupe Fiasco · 2022

40 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A contemplative exploration of personal and societal themes set against a backdrop of experimental beats and vivid storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    THE LION'S DEEN Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album, introducing listeners to Fiasco's introspective lyricism and unique narrative style, blending personal reflection with broader societal critiques.
  • →
    DRILL MUSIC IN ZION — The title track encapsulates the album’s thematic core, juxtaposing the harsh realities of drill music culture with spiritual and uplifting messages, showcasing Fiasco's lyrical dexterity.
  • →
    ON FAUX NEM — This track stands out for its complex wordplay and exploration of identity and authenticity, reflecting Fiasco's ongoing commitment to addressing deeper issues within the hip-hop landscape.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

66 /100
Alpine
Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album's innovative sound and introspective lyrics create a compelling narrative experience.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a spoken word piece that sets a reflective tone, followed by tracks that blend melodic hooks with complex lyrical narratives.
  • The final track features a gradual fade-out, leaving the listener with an unresolved feeling that echoes the themes explored in 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
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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

  • thoughtful introspection in flow
  • steady pacing with lyrical depth
  • peaks of experimental production
  • in-order listening for cohesion

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone hits

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — The album features a deliberate departure into innovative sound and themes.
Career context
Drill Music in Zion marks Lupe Fiasco's return after a four-year hiatus following the release of his album Droga5. At this point in his career, he has transitioned from mainstream success to an artistic focus on deep narratives and social issues, showcasing his evolution as a seasoned artist willing to challenge genre conventions.
Stylistic neighbors
Kendrick Lamar· J. Cole· Macklemore

Tracklist

  • 1 THE LION'S DEEN Start here 2:35
  • 2 GHOTI 1:51
  • 3 AUTOBOTO 4:30
  • 4 PRECIOUS THINGS 4:20
  • 5 KIOSK 3:42
  • 6 MS. MURAL / INTERLUDE 5:32
  • 7 NAOMI 2:57
  • 8 DRILL MUSIC IN ZION 4:31
  • 9 SEATTLE 5:16
  • 10 ON FAUX NEM 5:38

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata