Rank: 3/5
Baton Rouge’s golden boy Kevin Gates is known for his plethora of raw, jarring mixtapes and unapologetic honesty. His latest release “Islah,” is no exception, and showcases the street rapper’s credibility and versatility.
Gates released his debut album with Atlantic Records on Jan. 29. The record is an independent statement from Gates, with no guest appearances on the original track listing of 15 songs. The deluxe version of “Islah” has 17 tracks and features Trey Songz. The album feels more technically polished and involves a greater variety of instrumental sound.
“Islah” (pronounced Ees-lah) is Arabic for “to reform,” in the sense of to make better or to improve. The record is named after Gates’ eldest daughter.
“To inform, to improve, to make better, and I believe that’s what my first daughter did to me,” he said in an interview with hiphopdx.com, “so I named my first album after my first daughter.”
Gates’ first major label record is a mix of club favorites such as the ever popular “2 Phones” and “Really Really” and slower hip hop R&B. He retains his trademark style of crude street rap, but there is a more sentimental and vulnerable presence on this album in songs like “Pride” and “One Thing.”
The softer vibe on this album could be attributed to Gates marrying his longtime girlfriend and mother of his children Dreka Haynes last October. The responsibility he’s accrued with being a parent has contributed to his personal growth and change in music.
Gates has built a reputation off of his authenticity and directness. He doesn’t change his methods for “Islah,” but rather expands upon them with an openly experimental feel. This album incorporates melodies with acoustic guitar and more of Gates’ singing.
“Islah” shows Gates’ range and that he can produce diverse work while still attracting mainstream popularity. It appeals to a wide array of audiences from varied backgrounds. With “Islah’s” many infectious hits to add to his collection, his growing fan base will increase from regional to national.
Gates’ uncaring attitude on others’ opinions of his work is what makes him so likeable. He makes music for himself and doesn’t cater to anyone else’s tastes. He released “Islah” through a corporate medium, and his uncensored voice was still intact.