Stream: Ab-Soul – “Soul Burger”
Ab-Soul releases sixth studio album “Soul Burger”
Ab-Soul, one of the most thoughtful and complex lyricists in hip-hop, has just dropped his sixth studio album, Soul Burger. This marks a significant moment in his career, following the release of Herbert in December 2022. With Soul Burger, Ab-Soul continues to push boundaries, blending insightful lyricism with innovative production. The album features a diverse range of collaborations from artists like Doechii, Ty Dolla $ign, and Vince Staples. Here’s everything you need to know about this long-awaited release, from its standout features to its themes and musical direction.
Ab-Soul’s ‘Soul Burger’ Is Here: What’s Different This Time?
Soul Burger is Ab-Soul’s second album in under a year, which speaks to his current creative momentum. Following the success of Herbert, Soul Burger feels like a natural progression in his sound. The album not only highlights his lyrical genius but also demonstrates his growth as an artist.
This new project stands apart for its balance between deep introspection and a more accessible sound. While Herbert dealt heavily with Ab-Soul’s personal struggles and growth, Soul Burger dives into the complexities of life, culture, and the artist’s place within it. The title alone, Soul Burger, hints at a layered metaphor—one that blends soul food and fast food, suggesting a balance of substance and indulgence.
Themes and Message of ‘Soul Burger’
Ab-Soul has always been known for his ability to weave complex themes into his music, and Soul Burger is no different. Throughout the album, the rapper addresses topics like self-reflection, the struggle for authenticity in the music industry, and his relationship with fame. However, this album has a slightly more celebratory tone compared to the somber, reflective nature of Herbert. One of the most prominent themes on Soul Burger is the self-exploration and identity.
Key Collaborations and Features on ‘Soul Burger’
A standout feature of Soul Burger is the impressive list of guest appearances, each bringing their unique flavor to the album. The production is layered, with varied styles and moods that keep the listener engaged. Here’s a quick look at some of the major collaborations:
- Doechii: Known for her dynamic flow and genre-bending sound, Doechii is a perfect fit for Ab-Soul’s style. On tracks like “Dare Me,” her presence adds a new level of energy to the album. She’s a rising star in her own right, and her feature helps elevate Soul Burger with her infectious energy.
- Ty Dolla $ign: On songs like “Feeling Good,” Ty Dolla $ign provides the soulful hooks that tie the album’s more introspective moments with its upbeat tracks. His smooth, signature sound is a perfect complement to Ab-Soul’s gritty yet poetic delivery.
- Vince Staples: Both Ab-Soul and Vince Staples are masters at capturing the essence of West Coast life, and their collaboration on “Double Up” brings that unique energy to the album. Vince’s raw and unfiltered verses mesh well with Ab-Soul’s introspective approach.
- Other Guests: The album also includes features from artists like JID, Smino, and Buddy, who each bring their own distinctive style, making Soul Burger a celebration of diverse voices within hip-hop.
Production and Sound of ‘Soul Burger’
The production on Soul Burger is another highlight. Ab-Soul has always worked with some of the best producers in the game, and this album is no exception. From TDE affiliates like Sounwave and Kal Banx to fresh faces in the production scene, the beats on this project blend soul, funk, jazz, and West Coast vibes. This combination gives the album a timeless feel.
Ab-Soul’s Evolution: From ‘Herbert’ to ‘Soul Burger’
Looking back at Herbert, Ab-Soul’s previous album, it’s clear that Soul Burger represents an evolution in his sound and approach. While Herbert was darker and more personal, exploring the depths of his struggles with mental health and self-doubt, Soul Burger feels more triumphant. It reflects a greater sense of self-awareness and acceptance. Ab-Soul’s confidence shines through, but there’s still an air of vulnerability that makes his music so relatable.
Herbert vs. Soul Burger: Fans who were drawn to Herbert for its raw, unfiltered approach will find similar themes in Soul Burger. However, this new album offers more diversity in terms of sound, featuring tracks that range from introspective and soulful to bouncy and energetic. It’s clear that Ab-Soul is expanding his musical horizons while staying true to his roots.
Is ‘Soul Burger’ Worth the Hype?
The short answer: yes. Ab-Soul‘s Soul Burger is a bold, vibrant album that combines complex lyricism with diverse production. It’s a perfect balance of artistry and accessibility, showing that Ab-Soul is still one of the most unique voices in hip-hop today. With standout features, solid production, and themes that resonate on both a personal and cultural level, Soul Burger is an album that will satisfy both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Whether you’re a fan of Ab-Soul’s deep lyricism or you just appreciate a good beat, Soul Burger offers something for everyone. The album proves that Ab-Soul continues to evolve while staying true to his roots, making it a must-listen for 2024.