Mick Jenkins, a defining voice in the Chicago rap scene, returns with “The Patience,” marking his fourth release since “Elephant in the Room.” Known for his lyrical finesse and narrative depth, Jenkins captivated audiences with his breakthrough mixtape, “The Waters,” setting a high bar for subsequent releases.
However, his commercial debut with “The Healing Component” fell short, lacking the raw appeal that initially drew listeners in. Despite glimpses of improvement in later projects like “Pieces of a Man” and “Elephant,” a standout album seemed elusive.
Approaching his latest offering, “The Patience,” there was a sense of anticipation, unsure if it would match up to his earlier works. Surprisingly, this album defies expectations – it’s Jenkins’ most robust work in recent years, despite its concise 11 tracks and 27-minute runtime.
From the onset with “Michelin’s Star,” Jenkins showcases enduring skill, weaving narratives around cooking, hunger, and the intricacies of plating, akin to savoring a flavorful dish in small portions.
“Show and Tell,” featuring dramatic instrumentals, delves into personal growth and leading by example. Jenkins’ lyrical prowess shines through, painting vivid pictures with his words.
Standout moments include “Smoke Break Dance,” a collaboration with Freddie Gibbs, and “Guapapes,” dissecting the allure and darker facets of money.
However, a dip in momentum surfaces mid-album with tracks like “007” and “2004,” lacking the depth found in the album’s stronger moments. “Roy G. Biv,” although brief, impresses with rapid-fire, color-infused wordplay.
“Pasta” emerges as a highlight, with Jenkins delivering a bold vocal performance against a grand instrumental backdrop, showcasing raw hunger and determination.
The album concludes with “Mop,” offering insight into Jenkins’ current state – not a grand finale, but an update on his artistic journey, reflecting newfound control and expressive freedom.
Despite its brevity, “The Patience” feels like a rebirth for Mick Jenkins, hinting at creative growth and the promise of greater projects ahead.
Jenkins’ talent, evident since the early 2010s, shines through once more. Though not without its peaks and valleys, “The Patience” hints at an intriguing creative trajectory, earning a solid rating of a strong 7 to a light 8.
Have you experienced “The Patience”?
‘The Patience’ Out Now 8/18: https://mick-jenkins.lnk.to/ThePatience
Follow Mick Jenkins on Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/@MickJenkinsMusic
https://www.instagram.com/mickjenkins
https://open.spotify.com/artist/1FvjvACFvko2Z91IvDljrx
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