DWTW cover

Released 10 years ago

DWTW

Ab-Soul · 2016

76 min · 16 tracks · West Coast hip-hop

A contemplative blend of introspective lyricism and eclectic production that navigates personal and societal themes.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Huey Knew THEN — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of systemic issues and personal identity, showcasing Ab-Soul's ability to weave politics into his narrative effortlessly.
  • →
    D.R.U.G.S. — With its haunting beat and profound lyrics about addiction and temptation, this track exemplifies Ab-Soul's introspective style and lyrical prowess.
  • →
    God’s a Girl? — This track challenges traditional gender roles and religious beliefs through clever wordplay and sharp commentary, highlighting Ab-Soul’s unique perspective.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album's introspective lyrics and eclectic production create a unique listening experience, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.

What we noticed

  • Lyrical themes often shift abruptly between personal introspection and broader societal commentary, requiring active engagement from the listener.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

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
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Huey Knew THEN

    The verse shifts focus to historical injustices faced by marginalized communities, framing them within the context of personal narrative.

    This choice not only deepens the thematic complexity but also connects personal experiences with broader societal issues, enhancing the song's impact.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 RAW (Backwards) 4:45
  • 2 Braile 4:12
  • 3 Huey Knew THEN 4:30
  • 4 Threatening Nature 3:24
  • 5 Womanogamy 3:56
  • 6 Invocation 5:07
  • 7 Wifey vs. Wifi / / / P.M.S. 4:21
  • 8 Beat the Case / / / Straight Crooked 5:21
  • 9 Portishead in the Morning / / / HER World 4:27
  • 10 God’s a Girl? 3:14
  • 11 Now You Know 4:03
  • 12 D.R.U.G.S. 5:56
  • 13 Evil Genius 5:48
  • 14 Lonely Soul / / / The Law (prelude) 6:34
  • 15 The Law 5:29
  • 16 YMF 5:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata