SoulFly Album Review
If Rod Wave doesn't do anything else, he's going to make you feel his pain. The 21-year-old Floridian rapper released his third album Soulfly, on March 26th, 2021. Rod is very consistent with his sound and has been releasing his depressive rap for a while now. Ok, when I say depressive, it's not in a negative way! I am a fan of sad/emo rap so, Rod Wave's music is right up my alley. The song "Feel the Same Way" is when I was introduced to the rapper, but "Abandoned" is when I fell in love. Unlike some artists, Rod Wave makes you feel what he is saying. I haven't been through half the stuff he raps about, yet when I listen, I can relate.
With the release of Soulfly, and it now being two weeks since the project has dropped, I can say I'm pretty content with the makeup of this album. It is a 19 track and 1-hour play. It's not the best I've heard from Rod, but it's definitely worth a stream or an addition to your music library. He threw me off with the constant skits and only one feature, but Polo G was a nice choice if he had to choose. The album starts with an intro title Soulfly, which was a great opening. It sets the tone and confirms his melodic misery rhymes as he raps the bar; "I got skills in other things but got rich off rapping pain." Pure facts. Moving along, he hits us with another sad banger, "Tombstone." This song has become a fan favorite, and I think it's just off the poetic lyricism and angelic production.
“On my tombstone when they bury me.
By the river, they will carry me
Finally, I’ll be resting in peace
Finally, finally.”
In an interview with the breakfast club, the rapper says he's not suicidal, but he still needs a break from responsibilities. We all do, which makes that track hit home. The final additions to my favorites from this project are Street Runner, of course. His sample, OMDB, from Drake's original Over my Dead Body on the infamous Take Care album. Sneaky Links is a vibe, and Richer, all creds go to Polo G's verse (Go Listen). Overall I rate this album a 7/10. I can't listen all the way thru without feeling an ounce of sadness but the tracks I just named have been on repeat! Rod Wave is one of the best rappers out of Florida and is receiving his flowers in abundance. If you haven't already please give Soulfly a listen and thank you for reading.
-Jasmine Pollard