On the surface, ‘The Art’ might appear like your run-of-the-mill nostalgic rap album. Yet, at a deeper look, we are presented with a higher plane of meaning, a striking insight into Traè Scott’s observant, introspective lyricism and hard-hitting vocal flow. Packing sixteen tracks, including short interludes, ‘The Art’ particularly shines for its underlying artistic flair, defined by the American rapper as “the process itself being the masterpiece.” Simply put, the album marks the result of a cathartic process for Scott, as he slowly unplucks songs carrying a great deal of purpose and inspiration.
That said, we should also recognise the evocative prowess of the finished product; Traè’s powerful vocal tone guides the listening experience with unmatched charisma, taking us all through the highs and lows of the human experience, as well as nuanced emotional reflections. The production still maintains a sharp, upbeat livery, creating a constant push-and-pull between the sonic and lyrical dimensions.
Delving deeper into the creative ethos that propels his artistic journey, Scott explains: “I don’t make music to become the biggest artist in the world, even though that’s a goal. I make music because it’s the one place where my thoughts are completely understood. If my music can help someone else understand their own life a little better, then I’ve done what I set out to do.” We appreciate such an authentic and dedicated mission, and ‘The Art’ wonderfully mirrors that.
Scott is also the founder of record label III Abstract Minds.
Recommended! Discover ‘The Art’ now: