By Malice Intended
Listeners with higher expectations and more analytical minds prefer an artist to experiment and test his limitations. Casual fans rely on instinct and emotional response, appreciating the artist for who he is and what he provides. The most objective of us find a happy medium between these two extremes. We realize that music can be both fun and nourishing, sometimes in equal measure.
The State vs. Radric Davis, Gucci Mane’s second major label release, has been preceded by a barrage of mix tapes and guest appearances over the past year. It is filled to the brim with big name features and producers. On the surface it appears clearly designed to extend Gucci’s reach beyond his considerable core fan base. A deeper look reveals an artist who sticks to his strengths and plays it very close to the vest.
The Drumma Boy produced “Classical” (Intro) opens the set on a lively note. The title alludes to the orchestral feel of the track and the choral chant during the hook. Piano keys fluidly glide over a drum pattern tailored with the expected 808’s and hand claps. The first verse finds Gucci taking an unexpected shot at Jay-Z as he takes pride in coming from a place where people “don’t bump the Blueprint 3.”
The first quarter of the LP boasts two successful collaborations. “Stupid Wild” features Lil Wayne and Cam’ron over a driving synthesized bass line provided by Bangladesh. Lil Wayne does the expected, while Cam’ Ron sounds at home on a track clearly suited for southern tastes. Next up is “All About the Money” featuring Rick Ross and produced by Drumma Boy. Gucci and Rick engage in the expected drugs and money talk with considerable gusto.
The album produces its first gem with the infectious “Lemonade”, produced by Bangladesh. Gucci runs down a shopping list of fetish items he’d like buy in the color yellow. The subject matter is about as shallow as puddle of water, but Gucci approaches it with such abandon that it’s easy to overlook the ridiculousness of the concept. The extra repetitive piano loop over funky bass guitar keeps the head nodding uncontrollably.
“Wasted”, the undeniably infectious lead single produced by FATBOI and featuring Plies, finds Gucci at the height of his hit-making powers. Plies’ lazy southern drawl melts over the track while Gucci’s rapid-fire spit goes hard. The synth heavy track is interesting in how it seems to suit the contrasting flows and styles of both artists.
The slow rolling “Kush Is My Cologne” provides a much needed change of mood and tempo. Southern rap royalty Bun-B drops in to lend his robust vocals to the drowsy backdrop provided by Drumma Boy. Hypnotic whiny synths drive a track tailored for marijuana enthusiasts. Drumma Boy also provides the backdrop for the contemplative “Worst Enemy”. The hook speaks of parallels between Gucci’s career and that of Pac and B.I.G. He also casually dismisses his beefs with T.I. and Young Jeezy.
The mostly satisfying album suffers from a rather soft midsection filled with lackluster collaborations. “Bingo” produced by Scott Storch and featuring Souljah Boy Tell ‘Em and Waka Flaka Flame isn’t nearly as catchy as the all star line up would suggest. “Spotlight” produced by Polow da Don and featuring none other than Usher, is a somewhat watered down club anthem that finds both artists going lazily through the motions.
The bloated length of the set gives it the feel of glorified mix tape at times, leading to monotony. The mostly shallow nature of Gucci’s subject matter becomes tiresome; to the point where his cartoonish charisma and devil may care approach isn’t enough to sustain momentum. The production should be a bit more varied considering the roster of producers.
When all is said and done, The State vs. Radric Davis is a well calculated step towards establishing Gucci as a mainstream star. Gucci stays squarely in his lane and never deviates from course. Though he may be capable of more, he opts to give his fans what they want. This may not make his detractors reconsider they’re stance, but casual listeners and lifelong fans will be satiated. The State vs. Radric Davis will satisfy car stereo enthusiasts and party goers alike.
2.5 out of 5
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