After a long 5 years, Isaiah Rashad is back with his first full length project since 2016. The Chattanooga born rapper is known to be in and out of the limelight, releasing critically acclaimed projects then taking a break from the public view for a bit. But whenever he is present, Isaiah Rashad gifts us impeccable hip-hop projects. This time it’s ‘The House Is Burning’ – 16 tracks of lyrical excellence, smooth deliveries, and 90’s to early 2000’s inspired beats.
‘The House Is Burning’ is a metaphor to the recent turbulent years that Isaiah Rashad has been struggling with and working through, including a trip to rehab. Reality hit Rashad hard in the face, forcing him to confront things head on to turn his life around. This album is full of real talk and vulnerable bars about the hard times and his journey of overcoming. It’s not strictly seriousness though, you’ll also find playful vibes scattered throughout as well.
STREAM ‘The House Is Burning’ by Isaiah Rashad
Rashad’s message is delivered with even more variety than ever, with each track sporting a different aesthetic. Despite the varying styles, the Top Dawg Entertainment rapper presents a smooth and cohesive project.
“Darkseid” eases us into the album with a lyrically focused track over a light beat. What follows is a mix of party bangers like “From The Garden” ft. Lil Uzi Vert, smooth and slightly serious vibes in “RIP Young” and “Headshots (4r Da Locals)”, and perfect tracks for seshing with the homies like “Hey Mista” and “THIB”. You’ll hear word-packed, fire bars especially in tracks like “9-3 Freestyle” and “Chad” ft. YGTUT, but honestly Rashad’s skills are still prominent throughout.
Intertwined between tracks lay golden features from emerging talent and stars alike. A little over half of the tracks contain features, and they all positively add to the project. “Lay Wit Ya” features a tight verse by Memphis native Duke Deuce, and instantly gets your head bobbing to the beat and delivery. You’ll find Inglewood native R&B singer Amindi twice in ‘The House Is Burning,” providing smooth vocals each time. Isaiah Rashad and Amindi’s musical chemistry shines on “All Herb” as well as “True Story”.
‘The House Is Burning’ by Isaiah Rashad is full of features
Speaking of “True Story”, the ninth track also features Jay Rock and Jay Wave, both contributing impressive bars. “Score” contains the most prominent features with R&B moguls SZA and 6LACK hopping on the track with Rashad. My personal favorite feature is Smino on “Claymore”. Though the track starts out slow, the pace creates an almost dreamy sound, seamlessly blending Rashad’s vocals with the beat. Then comes Smino with his signature playful, melodic delivery that gets listeners grooving.
I could continue to go on about the musical excellence that is ‘The House Is Burning’ by Isaiah Rashad, but it’s best if you dive into it yourself. Enjoy the lyrical eloquence, smooth delivery, and carefully crafted beats that shine throughout. And if you haven’t heard his past albums ‘Cilvia Demo’ and ‘The Sun’s Tirade’, we highly suggest you give them a listen.
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