Smino submitted his sophomore project NØIR this past week, and while it wasn't the release to receive the loudest response, it may end up the very best when everything is said and done. "KRUSHED ICE" is fairly uncharted territory for Smino; he usually operates with less adrenaline in the chamber. But the ambiance suits his guest just fine: the venerable Valee from G.O.O.D. Music.
Smino's dalliance with Valee goes to show how much of an influence the city of Chicago has been on his music, to the point where I've even confused him for a native Chicagoan, but I gather he wouldn't be the least offended if I grouped him with the reformed slam poet society going down in the Windy City.
"KRUSHED ICE's" spareness and minimal construction is obviously more tailored to Valee's style. Bone-dry production with boosted bass aren't the perfect conditions for every rapper, but Smino proves himself capable, and even excellent, in this new setting.
Quotable Lyrics:
I like—I like fuckin' two girls at the same time
Same time, and she go crazy for the bassline
Bassline, she got Apple Bottom, give me FaceTime
Face time, livin' right now, can't erase time
N***a like me never really ever waste time
Unless I lost the Piguet.