What makes Testing by A$AP Rocky notable?

Testing received significant attention for its experimental approach and unique production style, debuting at number four on the Billboard 200 chart. Critics noted its divergence from mainstream trends, marking it as an influential work that could shape future sounds in hip-hop. Released in early 2018, Testing represents A$AP Rocky's third studio album following the commercial success of At.Long.Last.A$AP in 2015. By this point, Rocky was solidifying his place as a leading figure in alternative hip-hop, seeking to push creative boundaries and explore new sonic territories.

Testing works well if you're into dynamic flow with varied intensity, introspective moments throughout tracks and short bursts of engaging energy.

How many songs are on Testing?

Testing has 15 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

Testing

A$AP Rocky · 2018

52 min · 15 tracks · trap music

Experimental beats intertwine with introspective lyricism, creating a soundscape that challenges conventional hip-hop boundaries.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Fukk Sleep — This track juxtaposes dreamy instrumentals with stark lyrical themes about the challenges of fame and self-awareness, encapsulating the album's emotional depth.
→
Praise the Lord (Da Shine) — Featuring a catchy hook and vibrant production, this track became one of the album's standout singles, showcasing Rocky's ability to blend accessibility with artistic experimentation.
→
Kids Turned Out Fine — A reflective piece that addresses themes of growth and resilience, this track highlights Rocky's introspective side, contrasting with the more braggadocious elements found elsewhere on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's experimental sound and layered production create a unique listening experience, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.

What we noticed

The album opens with a track that features distorted vocal samples and unconventional rhythms, setting a tone of experimentation.
A$AP Rocky frequently employs layered vocal effects and harmonies, which add depth to his introspective lyrics.

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: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

dynamic flow with varied intensity
introspective moments throughout tracks
short bursts of engaging energy
experimental beats for curious listeners

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Challenges conventional hip-hop with unique production and abstract themes.
Themes: dreamy instrumentals· fame's challenges
Career context: Released in early 2018, Testing represents A$AP Rocky's third studio album following the commercial success of At.Long.Last.A$AP in 2015. By this point, Rocky was solidifying his place as a leading figure in alternative hip-hop, seeking to push creative boundaries and explore new sonic territories.
Stylistic neighbors: Travis Scott· Kid Cudi· Lil Uzi Vert