Jthurston Shines On His Latest Album “Self”
By: Chris Buxton IG: @chrisbuxtonllg
Have you ever listened to an artist that gave you goosebumps on the first listen? If so, these kinds of artists are hard to come by. Their attention to detail and ability to convey raw emotions makes them incomparable to their industry counterparts. They resemble the true meaning of the word “artist”.
Recently, I came across a rapper that has these qualities, and his name is Jthurston. Hailing from the California Bay Area, the Oakland-based rapper has been developing a cult-like fanbase with his ability to craft rap hits. He is polarizing, raw, and versatile. In an industry that values virality, Jthurston stays true to his craft. His bars are prolific, and his songwriting has an introspective touch that invites you in as a listener. I have yet to see an artist with his songwriting prowess. Now, Jthurston lands on our pages with his latest album “Self”.
“Self” is more than an album. It’s a sonic journey that explores the ins and outs of the human experience. This album is an exploration of the cognitive dissonance of confidence and self-consciousness, pride and shame, light and dark, all existing in one individual. Jthurston rises to the occasion and blesses us with some of his best vocal delivery and lyrics. I consider this to be his magnum opus.
The album is daring at its core and each song builds on the next. Sonically, the 10-track album is exceptional. My favorite songs were “Last Of Me” & “Me, Myself & Shame”. “Last Of Me” is one of the best intro tracks I have heard on an album this year. With its eerie soundscape, Jthurston approaches the beat with precision. His vocals carry over the dynamic 808s as he raps with introspective bars. The record has a nice build up and it grabbed my attention once I hit play. “Me, Myself & Shame” was a daring record. I loved the sonic transitions and the song arrangement was exceptional. Jthurston’s cadences were top tier. I loved the chorus on this one and this was my personal favorite song. Overall, this has been one of the best album experiences I’ve had this year. With that being said, stream the album below and Jthurston a follow. He is next up!
