Score: 5/5
Big Sean said he’s “always wanted paradise” on his track “Paradise (Extended),” and he achieves a place of peace with his newest album, “Dark Sky Paradise.”
In the past, Big Sean was a rapper who hadn’t received much recognition for more than releasing some catchy radio tracks. Now he’s created something that will place him with some of the most-acclaimed in the industry.
Big Sean takes notes from Kanye West “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” for the album, with the juxtaposition of recording harder rap tracks and softer rap songs. He also plays with beats and sounds. There’s a Drake “Take Care” sound too, including talking bits from family members on certain tracks. Basically, the rapper has combined multiple well-working aspects from previous popular rap albums and created one, flawless work.
“Dark Sky Paradise” is an album deserving of a thorough listen. Yes, there are stronger tracks than others, but to fully obtain the lyrical and musical experience Big Sean has created, one needs to dive in at track one and not stop until track 12, or 15 on the deluxe version.
“Dark Sky (Skyscrapers)” opens the album and is the story of Big Sean’s rise from a small, emerging rapper to an international success. This song is a solid example of a hard rap track and how Big Sean can spit out verse after verse— good ones at that.
Another heavy rap track is “Paradise (Extended)” and may be the best and pivotal track on the record. Big Sean ends the non-deluxe version with “Outro” which is another example of of his verse-spitting talent.
The record is heavy with collaborations as well, including Drake, Kanye West, E-40, Chris Brown, Ty Dolla $ign, Jhené Aiko, Lil Wayne, John Legend, PARTYNEXTDOOR and Ariana Grande.
“Play No Games” with Chris Brown and Ty Dolla $ign is a fun, three artist collaboration ready for radio. “I Know,” featuring Jhené Aiko, is a longer, darker track but showcases both artists’ talent.
Finally, “One Man Can Change the World” includes Kanye West and John Legend singing hooks while Big Sean raps. This track can only be described as beautiful. The lyrics are a positive send-off, hoping a man gets everything he desires. The song ends with a goodbye from Big Sean’s grandma which can provoke a smile or a tear.
“Dark Sky Paradise” will remain in rap relevance for years. Big Sean took a stab at paradise, found it and will be living there for some time.