After signing to Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang Records back in 2013, American hip-hop artist Tyrone Griffin (better known as Ty Dolla $ign) has released a star-studded debut LP. A short mixtape released last year gave fans a taste of what to expect from his first full-length.
Due to Griffin having close connections to the likes of DJ Mustard and YG, the instrumentation was inevitably going to play a significant part in the success of this album. Versatility and experimentation is exhibited throughout, with tracks such as ‘Straight Up’ and ‘Horses In The Stable’ drawing influence from both jazz and blues respectively. Griffin was always going to have to be lyrically strong on this album in order to avoid being out-shone by the guest features. The tracklisting is laced with wordsmiths, including Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, and Future. Luckily, most of the lyrical content is more than adequate, especially on the opener ‘LA’.
This year’s undeniable hip-hop breakout star, Fetty Wap, also features on ‘When I See Ya’. Unfortunately this is where the decline on this album begins. Both instrumentally and lyrically, the cuts from here on out are somewhat forgettable. Tame beats paired with minimal wordplay make for a lacklustre and disappointing end to an otherwise promising debut. Despite only being in the major label game for 2 years, Ty Dolla $ign’s musical mind is undeniable. The opening two thirds of his debut LP showcase exactly how to execute an auspicious hip-hop album, but a certain level of consistency will have to be achieved in order to place him among the greats.