MEAN 2023 Album

Scott Storch R-Mean

This starts off well. R-Mean proves he can spit, even if Nas renegaded him on ‘Candle of the Devil’. Unfortunately, ‘TBS’ couldn’t be more generic if it tried. The trap production is standard, the hook vocals are uninspired, and yes, there’s even a “skrrt” ad-lib. ‘Downfall’ is an improvement, but again, both the beat and hook feel bland, with R-Mean’s verses being the only real saving grace. ‘Circus’ pays tribute to countless rap legends, though Method Man’s verse doesn’t quite stick to the same theme. Overall, R-Mean’s skills are clear, and I get that it’s not the mid-2000s anymore, but back then Storch had a distinctive sound, but here, too much of it just blends in with today’s generic trap production as does some of Mean's writing. There are some good moments, but in its totality there is too much I don't enjoy. Beats: ★★☆ Rapping/Bars: ★★★ Hooks: ★★☆ Best Tracks: Candle of the Devil, The Rising Son, Lonely Day