From the jump, Ha$an quickly brings audiences up to speed with the hard-hitting track “A Dark Poem,” where he lays the foundation for the rest of the project. Over a soulful and anthemic backdrop, he raps “Hella cheddar, like a boatload from Costcos/Doli told me, make em bleed slow/Like Pac from 96” Deathrow/I’ma bomb first with a 38 special/Blood of a king, heart of a being/Finna transfuse for ideas that transcends the world’s forsaken rules” with raw confidence. This leads into the single “Protect Your Sword” and continues with another bout of lyrical barrage laced with insight. On the next set of tracks, the rapper gradually reveals his core as he balances creative duties with life. “Countless” dives into the street codes and the effect of having integrity, while “Motives” details how our thoughts affect the universe and vice versa. The latter is particularly refreshing as he depicts himself as a warrior on a turbulent journey filled with iniquities, and the only way is to keep his mind sharp and free from white noise.
“Koroshimasu Pt II” is a jam that is bolstered by cinematic production that drops listeners right in the middle of the action. Here, he flexes his verbal biceps with bars like “No time for the stupid shit/Body blows make a nigga stomach fluid shift/No time for a moody bitch/just shut up and give me head so I can buss like a uzi clip ” while on “Dangerous,” he switches into a brooding mood. The retro, Midwest-infused production is striking and punchy, tailor-made for Ha$an’s commanding flow. The next track “Ghost” is laced with smooth melodic flows, reflective bars on the never-ending struggles nd having to deal with naysayers, detractors and fair-weather friends alike. The first feature on the project appears on “Moonlight” with artist Young Ode taking that title. The track is a modern melodic emo-trap piece that showcases both rappers’ exchanging tales of their hustle game and go-getter mindset.
The project continues on an interesting trajectory with the last set of three tracks. “The Dreamer Pt II,” has a sombre vibe, and Ha$an employs a melodic performance style and does a solid job of expressing his feelings on wax. He reflects on his life’s journey and the arduous road he has to take to get to the apex. It’s raw, authentic and highly relatable if you asked me. This leads into the upbeat “Untouchable” with a mantra-like flute-driven trap backdrop; here, the rapper flows in a stream-of-consciousness style and bolsters it with bravado and a catchy hook. The final track “No Harm” ends the project on a cautious note as he steps to the forefront with a blend of melodic flows, street savvy insight and a touch of braggadocio to match.
Overall, Redemption is an engaging audio journey that follows the artist known as Ha$an as he breaks down barriers, destroys the inner demons, flexes on his opps and finds true purpose while at it.