What makes Shake the Snow Globe by Russ notable?

The album debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing Russ's growing popularity and commercial appeal. It received positive reviews for its lyrical depth and production quality, further establishing him as a significant voice in modern hip-hop. When 'Shake the Snow Globe' was released in January 2020, Russ was riding high from the success of his previous albums and singles. This project followed his commercial breakthrough with 'Zoo' in 2018, solidifying his position as a self-made artist who writes, produces, and performs his own music.

Who is Shake the Snow Globe for?

Shake the Snow Globe works well if you're into reflective moments for introspection, short tracks for quick listens and laid-back vibe for relaxation.

How many songs are on Shake the Snow Globe?

Shake the Snow Globe has 12 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Shake the Snow Globe

Russ · 2020

38 min · 12 tracks · hip-hop

A reflective blend of introspective lyrics and melodic hooks over laid-back, contemporary hip-hop beats.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
ASSHOLE — This track stands out for its candid self-reflection and critique of detractors, encapsulating Russ's journey through personal struggles and public perception.
→
MOMMA — In this heartfelt tribute to his mother, Russ blends vulnerability with appreciation, showcasing his lyrical ability to convey complex emotions.
→
NEED A MINUTE — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its contemplative mood and introspection, highlighting Russ's growth as an artist while addressing mental health.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album blends introspective lyrics with melodic hooks, creating a solid but familiar hip-hop experience.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a consistent mid-tempo, while the second half introduces more varied pacing and emotional weight.
Several tracks incorporate melodic hooks that are repeated throughout, creating a sense of familiarity and cohesion.
The interlude 'NIGHTTIME' serves as a brief pause in the flow, allowing for reflection before the final tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
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

reflective moments for introspection
short tracks for quick listens
laid-back vibe for relaxation
melodic hooks for easy singing
early evening chill sessions

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy party tracks
prefer longer immersive albums

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'Shake the Snow Globe' was released in January 2020, Russ was riding high from the success of his previous albums and singles. This project followed his commercial breakthrough with 'Zoo' in 2018, solidifying his position as a self-made artist who writes, produces, and performs his own music.
Stylistic neighbors: J. Cole· Logic· Big Sean