Vic Mensa, the former 19-year-old co-frontman of the band Kids These Days, has finally found his footing with his autobiographical album, VICTOR. Embracing his personal failures, getting sober, and spreading inspirational messaging, VICTOR is undoubtedly Mensa’s most mature album. The project features straightforward, bass-heavy production that keeps things moving with a gritty, propulsive intensity. Vic tackles systemic racism on the track “Blue Eyes”, thanks his fans and God for 30 years of life on the song “Blessings,” and channels the spiritual best of Kanye West on “14 Days.” The House-influenced bonus track “Eastside Girl” featuring the infallible Ty Dolla $ign is left for the end of the project, which is a good placement considering the nature of the joint. VICTOR provides a holistic look at Vic Mensa, who’s actually come into his own at last, showcasing his life and journey as an artist.
Vic collaborated with artists such as G-Eazy, Mr Hudson, Chance the Rapper, and the aforementioned Ty Dolla $ign on this project, which elevated the album further sonically. That being said, by no means does Mensa lean on these features as crutches. The album explores themes of sobriety, relationships, redemption, mental health, and community. The album features 11 tracks, demonstrating a diverse range of styles and influences, which are demonstrated across tracks like “Strawberry Louis Vuitton”, “LVLN UP”, and “All I Kno”. The album’s central track, “Law of Karma”, explores themes of hypocrisy and self-realization, resembling Jay-Z’s confessional record “4:44.”
VICTOR is a bold approach that breaks away from the “woke rapper” mold, allowing the genre to permeate on a broader level. Mensa’s raps blend sacred and profane elements, with some songs being fun but meaningless. His spiritual and political material, like “Blue Eyes”, explores self-hatred and suicidal ideation. Mensa’s intelligent appreciation of his craft is evident in his work. Overall, I wouldn’t say this album is a classic or a must-listen. However, it feels as though it’s yet another new beginning for Vic Mensa, who is unquestionably one of the most promising artists in the hip-hop genre today.
