Struggler
Genesis Owusu · 2023
38 min · 11 tracks
A dynamic blend of genre-defying sounds interwoven with introspective lyrics and vibrant, eclectic production.
Top tracks — play these first
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Freak Boy — This track encapsulates the album's exploration of identity and self-acceptance through its infectious hook and layered production that creates an immersive listening experience.
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That's Life (A Swamp) — With its contemplative lyrics and rich instrumentation, this song stands out for its introspective look at life's challenges while balancing a catchy melody.
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The Roach — Offering a sharp commentary on societal expectations, this track features striking rhythms and clever wordplay that highlight Owusu's lyrical prowess.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong writing and eclectic production but has some unevenness in flow.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a dynamic tone, followed by a shift to more introspective themes in the middle.
- Several tracks feature abrupt tempo changes, creating a sense of unpredictability and keeping the listener engaged.
- The use of varied instrumentation across tracks, including electronic elements and live instruments, contributes to its genre-defying sound.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- short bursts of vibrant energy
- introspective reflections on identity
- playful yet poignant storytelling
- engaging narratives across tracks
Maybe skip if you
- prefer long, uniform albums
- seek traditional song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Struggler marks Genesis Owusu's sophomore album, following his debut, Smiling with No Teeth, which garnered critical acclaim and established him as a unique voice in Australian music. Released in August 2023, this album arrives during a period of increasing visibility and artistic exploration for Owusu, reflecting his growth since his breakthrough.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Thundercat· Anderson .Paak· JID
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Leaving the Light
The verse shifts perspective abruptly, creating a sense of urgency while confronting personal demons.
This structural choice amplifies the emotional gravity of the message, emphasizing the struggle between hope and despair.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Leaving the Light 3:10
- 2 The Roach 2:38
- 3 The Old Man 2:24
- 4 See Ya There 4:39
- 5 Freak Boy 2:28
- 6 Tied Up! 3:09
- 7 That's Life (A Swamp) 5:26
- 8 Balthazar 3:00
- 9 Stay Blessed 2:57
- 10 What Comes Will Come 3:51
- 11 Stuck to the Fan 4:17
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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