Raz Simone is starting 2019 on a slow heartfelt note with his latest album Still Love. Simone’s previous album Drive Theory was recognized as one of 2018’s best albums. Then followed up that with two epic holiday-themed releases in “Family Films” and “Santa Claus.” The gangster poet with the raspy delivery continues his hip-hop proliferation with an easy listening 15 track album, his most extensive piece of work to date.
We got a sneak peek of his latest album’s pacing with the single “Forever Don’t Last.” A somber song about life’s pitfalls, the rest of the 14 tracks follow this tone.
Still Love’s release coincided with another Word Star exclusive video drop. “Hurting Painters” is about how his gangster lifestyle comes between him and the women in his life. The video is a beautiful visual that cuts between two sides of Simone’s personality as he raps over beautiful violin-lead instrumentals.
“Words they cut me, words they fray, words they come out and never go away. Words they paint and my canvas is full from all the hurting painters, just like you.”
This album is a far cry from the thugged-out bangers or social-political charged messages Simone has released in the past. While the album touches those elements they’re far from the focus. It’s centered around finding and losing love and all the mixed emotions that come with it. He really shows his artistic chops across these tracks. Rapping over beats mainly made of instrumentals and showing a softer side under his usual swagger and gold-laden bravado.
With sultry features by Saint Claire and Sonyae Elise, Still Love is already be one of the best albums of 2019 and were not even a month in. A highlight from this album has to be “Missin Joogs Still,” a softer rendition of his 2016 single “Missin Joogs.” The simple piano-based beat fits the tone of the song perfectly. There’s no way your grandma isn’t vibing with this joint.
