What makes RR2: The Bitter Dose by Roc Marciano notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, establishing Roc Marciano as a significant influencer in contemporary hip-hop. Its release contributed to the growing trend of independent artists gaining recognition without major label support, highlighting the DIY ethos within the genre. RR2: The Bitter Dose is Roc Marciano's follow-up to his critically acclaimed album Rosebud's Revenge. Released in 2018, this album finds Marciano further solidifying his status in the underground hip-hop scene, showcasing his unique sound and approach to lyricism after establishing himself as a key figure in modern rap.

Who is RR2: The Bitter Dose for?

RR2: The Bitter Dose works well if you're into vivid storytelling immersion, contemplative late-night sessions and layered, dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on RR2: The Bitter Dose?

RR2: The Bitter Dose has 15 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

RR2: The Bitter Dose

Roc Marciano · 2018

48 min · 15 tracks · hip-hop

Smooth, atmospheric production intertwines with Roc Marciano's gritty storytelling and layered lyricism, creating a distinctive hip-hop experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Respected — This opening track sets the tone for the album, blending confident delivery with intricate wordplay that encapsulates Marciano's mastery of storytelling.
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Corniche — In this track, Marciano's smooth flow complements a minimalist beat, allowing his vivid imagery and personal reflections to shine through.
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The Sauce — This track exemplifies Marciano's ability to craft compelling narratives while maintaining an engaging rhythm, reflecting both style and substance.
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Happy Endings — With its introspective lyrics and rich production, this track adds depth to the album, revealing a more vulnerable side of Marciano amidst his typical bravado.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album features intricate lyricism over smooth production, establishing a strong identity within underground hip-hop.

What we noticed

The album opens with a slow, atmospheric track that sets a moody tone, and the following tracks maintain this laid-back vibe with minimal tempo changes.
Roc Marciano's verses often feature intricate internal rhymes and vivid imagery, creating a layered lyrical experience that invites close listening.
Several tracks incorporate jazz-inflected samples and subtle instrumentation, enhancing the overall smoothness of the production without overshadowing the vocals.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

vivid storytelling immersion
contemplative late-night sessions
layered, dense sonic textures
steady, consistent energy levels

Where this album fits

Career context: RR2: The Bitter Dose is Roc Marciano's follow-up to his critically acclaimed album Rosebud's Revenge. Released in 2018, this album finds Marciano further solidifying his status in the underground hip-hop scene, showcasing his unique sound and approach to lyricism after establishing himself as a key figure in modern rap.
Stylistic neighbors: Action Bronson· Freddie Gibbs· Curren$y