You Only Live 2wice cover

You Only Live 2wice

Freddie Gibbs · 2017

31 min · 8 tracks · hip-hop

A gritty blend of introspective storytelling and hard-hitting beats, layered with emotional depth and vivid imagery.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    20 Karat Jesus — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its vivid storytelling and stark reflections on fame, highlighting Gibbs' lyrical prowess.
  • →
    Amnesia — This track explores themes of memory and loss through an atmospheric production that complements Gibbs' introspective verses, showcasing his versatility.
  • →
    Homesick — In 'Homesick', Gibbs addresses feelings of alienation and longing for home, using poignant imagery that resonates deeply with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Gibbs combines personal narratives with sharp production, resulting in a cohesive and engaging hip-hop album.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong narrative in '20 Karat Jesus', setting a tone that blends personal storytelling with social commentary.
  • Tracks like 'Crushed Glass' and 'Amnesia' feature layered production, where the beats complement Gibbs' intricate rhyme schemes and emotional delivery.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

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
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • cinematic storytelling with depth
  • introspective themes and reflections
  • compact tracks for quick sessions
  • emotional exploration of identity

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat party vibes
  • seek straightforward, catchy songs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in early 2017, You Only Live 2wice is Freddie Gibbs' first project after his critically acclaimed collaboration with Madlib on Piñata. This album showcases Gibbs' evolution as an artist, following a tumultuous period that included legal troubles and personal challenges, marking a significant return to form.
Stylistic neighbors
Conway The Machine· Westside Gunn· Boldy James

Tracklist

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

  • 1 20 Karat Jesus 5:21
  • 2 Alexys 2:59
  • 3 Crushed Glass 4:35
  • 4 Dear Maria 3:55
  • 5 Amnesia 3:18
  • 6 Andrea 3:12
  • 7 Phone Lit 4:00
  • 8 Homesick 4:29

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata