Chance the Rapper

Just over a year after releasing his debut mixtape, Chicago, IL native Chance the Rapper has returned with his unique, coming-of-age, 13-track narrative, Acid Rap. Opener "Pusha Man" revels in the drug odyssey that lays the backbone of this album, which is further supported by the hazy "Smoke Again" and the lows of "Lost." Chance reveals the softer side of his persona on the nostalgic "Cocoa Butter Kisses" and with the storytelling of "Acid Rain," two tracks that singlehandedly outline the purpose of this album: transitioning from childhood to adulthood. One thing this album doesn't lack is an onslaught of guests. From newcomers like Noame Gypsy and Vic Mensa to rising stars such as Action Bronson, B.J. the Chicago Kid and Ab-Soul, everyone brings something to this tape. "Favorite Song," a Mary J. Blige sample-driven track, cohesively combines Chance's melodic flow alongside Childish Gambino's comedic attack, showing not just Chance's diversity, but also one of the strongest guest spots on the album. While Acid Rap is laced with production from Jake One, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League and Blended Babies, it isn't fully polished, with 30 seconds of dead air on "Pusha Man." However, Chance refines his thoughts and melodic deliveries into a great audible journey. With simple rhyme schemes, by no means is Chance an incredible rapper, but he is true to his artistry, the person he's growing into and is becoming a force in the new age rap realm.