Earlier this year, rap artist Lukas James emerged with his debut album Young Bobby Caldwell, a 7-track project partly influenced by the late singer Bobby Caldwell and James’ life as a young adult navigating the unbeaten path. Now, he returns with a brand new project that continues in a similar vein, albeit with a different soundscape. Titled TAKES TO BECOME, the project has 6 tracks that explore James’ current situation and his constant battle as he continues to search for true purpose.
The first track, “SCRAMBLE,” features Liliiia Kysil, who is a long-time collaborator. The production on this track is solid; I love how the TV show intro switches into the dark trap soundscape and sets the tone for the rest of the project. This track is a declaration of sorts, and it finds Lukas James standing on business and sharing his thoughts on several things that matter to him.
“This goes out to every boss at every meeting/Every contrarian, contradictory ’cause your life is in pieces/Need a reason, you could never put me down/Hun, my dogs in heaven you could never put me down” underpins the direct manner of approach that will be heard throughout the rest of the project. Also, please wait til the end to hear the beat switch.
“Dead Prez” has the classic boom-bap vibe we all love and is punctuated by a solemn jazz sample and the vocals from Nas’ track “The World Is Yours.” Here, Lukas James reflects on the never-ending struggles of life, where family support and being successful are independent. He is joined by Pro Era’s CJ Fly, who delivers a solid verse. “Can’t Be Life” flips a classic soul sample and continues a trip into Lukas James’ thoughts as he ruminates on the current state of affairs. He sounds comfortable and contented in some ways, and it seems he has learned to roll with the punches as he gives listeners some interesting viewpoints “CRY” is a touching story about modern dating, the complexities of blossoming love, uncertain emotions and self-imposed trauma that seem to be commonplace. Lines like “Why we always in our feelings these days/I feel like everybody ’round me end up feeling these way” underscore the exact feelings in a nutshell
“Right or Wrong” sees Lukas James teaming up with longtime collaborator Dan Newton, and the result is a profound look at growth, self-assessment, and the power of decision-making. The final track “SMUG!” starts with a classic Miami bass track and flips into a modern R&B/trap track with warm textures and punchy drums. Here, James bares his thoughts on braggarts and perpetrators who lack substance in every sense of the word.
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This review was made possible by SubmitHub.
