2 Chainz, formally known as Tity Boi, has just released his first studio album under his new name. His numerous features in 2012 included tracks with Kanye West, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Drake, Wiz Khalifa (to name a few). His verses were always on point, and I personally looked forward to his bars on his features. With this being said, I was immensely curious to hear what a solo album would sound like, without the crutch of other established rappers.
Looking at the tracklisting, I initially believed “Based on a T.R.U. Story” would sound just like the radio singles. We see Lil Wayne on “Yuck,” Nicki Minaj on “I Luv Dem Strippers,” John Legend on “Ghetto Dreams,” and Chris Brown on “Countdown.” In fact, of the album’s 13 tracks (excluding the bonus tracks on the deluxe copy) 9 have features.
Yet upon listening to the album, it becomes evident that this album, features aside, is entirely 2 Chainz product. Lil Wayne provides the hook for “Yuck” and we hear for the first time 2 Chainz completely hold his on a song. The album pays homage to 2 Chainz street life, with “Crack,” “Dope Peddler” and “Ghetto Dreams” all relating his experiences hustling.
Now some general comments on the album as a whole. This is 2 Chainz. By no means would anyone regard 2 Chainz as the lyricist of the year, and I think fans of his music don’t approach his lines looking for bars that will alter their lives. 2 Chainz lyrics are fun, charismatic, and at times over the top. This being said, I do not think 2 Chainz really broke any barriers with his delivery or style that would really draw critical acclaim.
Second thing that stood out were repetitive beat selection. AllHipHop.com stated that there were a “few tracks in the early half of the project sounding too redundant,” and I have to agree. “Yuck” sets the tone early, making you excited for the next track, but by the time you get past the next two tracks, you’re sadly let down.
Don’t get me wrong, the album is not a flop. “In Town” featuring Mike Posner (side note where the hell has Posner been?) is surprisingly good, even though the vibe for the track seems like it would be much better suited for Posner. “Stop Me Now” also is a keeper, as 2 Chainz smoothly rolls his bars over a soulful track.
Overall, “Based On a T.R.U. Story” is definitely worth a listen, but by no means is it the standout album I thought it would be. You can pick up the deluxe copy of the album in the Itunes Store, or be a dick and pirate it here: http://thepiratebay.se/torrent/7515798/2_Chainz_-_Based_On_A_T.R.U_Story_%5BDeluxe_Version%5D
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