It's been a minute since we've heard a full-length project from 21 Savage. Still, the warning signs were in effect. Two standout verses on Metro Boomin's Not All Heroes Wear Capes pointed to a return of the triumphant variety. Meek Mill's "Pay You Back" only lent credence to 21's imminent return. Though ISSA revealed a notable stylistic change in the once cold-hearted young rapper, his string of verses seemed to indicate that a return to his roots was in process. That is to say, cold-blooded, murderous, and occasionally gallows-humor laden raps. Hopefully with a few Metro Boomin bangers on deck.
Tonight, 21 has gifted us with I Am > I Was, his third solo studio album in two years. Given that his last drop, the Offset-assisted Without Warning dropped over a year ago, it's possible that we're looking at 21's most polished effort to date. Clearly, he's ready to stand by his work, lining the album artwork announcement with a veritable herd of goats. The monotone bar spitter has always been a fan favorite, but now, he's on the verge of widening his fan base by an exponential margin. Some might call this project his most important thus far. Be sure to check out I Am > I Was now; if you feel compelled get those knives out, please do so responsibly.