Reviews (page 2 of 8)
who?
I don't think there was anything in this that I liked
First listen. Never heard of him before. Not for me.
Not for me.
Oh this is so great. I had never heard of this artist before listening here. Just loved it. The instrumentals are fantastic and I really like the compositional choices.
Arrancamos semana un martes con una rapera que, como tanto de éste género, me es por completo desconocida. Me gusta cómo comienza. Tiene un sonido fresco, en la línea de Kendrick Lamar. El álbum se mantiene muy bien hasta el final. Va a mi lista de favoritos de los que el reto me ha sugerido de éste género. Gracias y hasta mañana
Gran gran disco
best UK and best female rapper of all time, generational run started here
Maravilho, mistura de jazz com hip hop industrial. Discão
Second album I've heard from her. What a surprise! The beats are great, her flow is unique and on point.
I’ve had this on rotation for five years. Beats are minimal but pack a lot of variety. She’s got a confident/arrogance in her delivery but also soul. My main complaint about rap albums so far is length and quality control, but this is great from start to finish. Maybe the best UK rap album.
peak
music is love
I forgot how good this album was. Really great crisp production all around, love some of the bass lines here. Props to how goofy some of these tracks are. Using the zipscramble sfx in the first song and the cheery weirdness of 101 FM. Mostly I’m happy with the brevity. It’s tight, doesn’t overstay its welcome. Makes for easy replay.
Loved it
I don’t have an obsessive knowledge of contemporary music. That’s a young folks game. But a few pieces of my spotty knowledge clicked into place here. I knew this album existed. I knew I had enjoyed the singles well enough. But on actually listening to the album I found myself loving the production. “This sounds like Sault … I wonder … ahhhhhhhh” Oh yeeeeah, the story of the producer nicking Simz’ cash for that mad live thing. It all makes sense! So Inflo. Amazing producer. Bit of a dick. Great album.
This was great. Totally new to me. Never heard of her. Everything was good. Good groove, easy to listen to and enjoy. Quality all around. Very nice surprise.
An album which focusses on female empowerment within a male dominated industry and there’s numerous references to this throughout the album as well as a more general wish to be acknowledged. This is cast against a backdrop of her navigating her 20s in terms of relationships and other issues. The album is her first produced by Inflo with whom she’ll record these next 3 albums. After 2 good but unspectacular albums, Simz has moved up to a different level here. Teaming up with producer Inflo, her confidence in herself and growth as an artist are evident. The production here is phenomenal and their chemistry is clear. The opening tracks pack the punch and grab your attention but there’s real range across the album with more soulful and reflective tracks, particularly in the second half.
💡 Interesting! Initially I saw this album and thought ".... Who is this?". I've listened to one of her other tracks quite a few times though. It's been a few years and that gave me a little more confidence that I might like this album. 🙌 I listened to it twice and it's definitely one of the better albums on this list, though I don't know how much of a compliment that is yet since I'm pretty early in this project. 🎧 This album grew on me a lot over the course of the day. At one point I turned it on because it was what I really wanted to listen to. I started listening to her most recent album and really like it. 🤭 Reflecting as I write reveals that this is another five star album!
loveeee
# GREY Area by Little Simz: An In-Depth Review Released on March 1, 2019, *GREY Area* represents the third studio album from British-Nigerian rapper Little Simz (Simbi Ajikawo). Clocking in at just 35 minutes across 10 tracks, this concise yet potent record marked a pivotal moment in her career—solidifying her reputation as one of the most formidable voices in contemporary hip-hop. --- ## Lyrical Analysis Little Simz demonstrates extraordinary lyrical dexterity throughout *GREY Area*, establishing herself as what she calls "Picasso with the pen" on the opening track "Offence" . Her writing balances technical prowess with emotional authenticity, weaving together complex rhyme schemes that keep listeners engaged through multiple listens. The album's lyrics operate on multiple registers. On tracks like "Boss," she delivers assertive, almost aggressive declarations of her dominance in a male-dominated industry: "I'm a boss in a fucking dress" . Conversely, on "Therapy," she opens up about mental health struggles with disarming vulnerability, rapping about her distrust of traditional therapy and choosing instead to process her pain through music . "Venom" stands out as perhaps the album's most lyrically intense moment—a rapid-fire assault where Simz channels years of built-up anger over systemic oppression and gender inequality. The track became a viral phenomenon, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where its themes of female empowerment resonated widely . The storytelling reaches its emotional peak on "Wounds," written after Simz learned that a friend had been murdered. She describes sneaking into the studio alone, sitting in darkness, and channeling her grief into the track . This autobiographical approach—recalling early days recording in bedroom studios on "101 FM" or confronting mortality on "Flowers"—grounds the album in lived experience. --- ## Musical Style & Production The sonic architecture of *GREY Area* is helmed almost entirely by Inflo (Dean Josiah Cover), Simz's childhood friend and frequent collaborator . His production philosophy here favors live instrumentation over sampling—a deliberate departure from her previous work . **Genre Fusion:** The album refuses easy categorization, blending elements of: - **UK Grime** ("101 FM," "Offence") - **Jazz Rap** ("Pressure," "Therapy") - **Neo-Soul** ("Selfish" featuring Cleo Sol) - **Trip-Hop** ("Venom") - **Reggae/Dub** ("Wounds" featuring Chronixx) **Production Highlights:** - "Offence" opens with an aggressive electronic bassline augmented by Asian woodwind instrumentation - "Boss" features a distorted, bluesy vocal chorus over overdriven bass riffs - "Pressure" incorporates jazz piano that contrasts beautifully with Simz's rapid-fire delivery - "Sherbet Sunset" evokes LCD Soundsystem with its driving bass and emotional build Inflo's work on this album helped establish him as a major force in British music—he would later win the Brit Award for Producer of the Year, becoming the first Black music producer to receive this honor . --- ## Thematic Exploration The album's title reflects its central conceit: life in your mid-twenties exists in a liminal space, neither the black-and-white certainty of youth nor the settled wisdom of later adulthood . Simz described being "in a very confusing headspace" during creation, where "nothing is black and white, nothing is set in stone" . **Key Themes:** **1. Identity & Self-Worth** Tracks like "Selfish" explore the tension between ambition and personal relationships. Simz examines her own perceived selfishness in pursuing her artistic dreams, questioning whether the sacrifices are worth the success . **2. Grief & Loss** "Wounds" and "Flowers" bookend the album's emotional core. The latter namechecks artists who died at age 27 (Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain, Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin, Robert Johnson), reflecting on mortality as Simz approaches that age herself . **3. Female Empowerment & Gender Dynamics** "Venom" serves as a manifesto for women in power, with Simz spitting venom at those who underestimate her. The track's brooding, string-heavy production underscores its confrontational message . **4. Mental Health** "Therapy" directly addresses the stigma around seeking help, with Simz admitting she preferred processing her pain through art rather than professional counseling . **5. Nostalgia & Roots** "101 FM" looks backward to her origins—dreams of "getting out the flats," playing PS2 with friends, losing companions to the prison system—while acknowledging how far she's come . --- ## Influence & Legacy *GREY Area* arrived at a crucial moment for UK hip-hop. While American trap dominated global charts, Simz proved that British rap could maintain commercial viability without sacrificing artistic integrity . **Critical Reception:** The album received widespread acclaim, with many critics noting it as her breakthrough work. Kendrick Lamar had previously called her "the illest" of her generation, and *GREY Area* justified that co-sign . The Quietus described it as her best album to date, praising her ability to harness both "vulnerable, raw moments" and "savage, wisdom-weaponry" . **Cultural Impact:** - "Venom" became an anthem for female empowerment, spreading across social media platforms - The album helped establish the template for the jazz-rap/neo-soul revival in UK hip-hop - It set the stage for her Mercury Prize-winning follow-up *Sometimes I Might Be Introvert* (2021) **Artistic Influence:** Simz's willingness to experiment with live instrumentation and genre-blending influenced subsequent UK artists. Her auteur-like approach—maintaining creative control through her Age 101 imprint while collaborating with visionary producers like Inflo—provided a blueprint for independent artists navigating the streaming era . --- ## Pros & Cons ### **Pros:** | Aspect | Details | |--------|---------| | **Concise Runtime** | At 35 minutes, the album maintains urgency without filler—"all killer, no filler" | | **Lyrical Versatility** | Simz shifts effortlessly between aggressive grime flows, introspective storytelling, and melodic neo-soul | | **Production Quality** | Inflo's live instrumentation creates a warm, organic sound that stands apart from sample-heavy hip-hop | | **Emotional Range** | From the grief of "Wounds" to the bravado of "Boss," the album covers substantial emotional territory | | **Genre Fluidity** | Seamlessly blends grime, jazz, soul, and trip-hop without feeling disjointed | | **Personal Authenticity** | The autobiographical details feel earned rather than performative | ### **Cons:** | Aspect | Details | |--------|---------| | **Brief Runtime** | Some listeners may find the album too short, leaving them wanting more | | **Second Half Dip** | Tracks like "Pressure" and "Flowers," while solid, don't quite reach the heights of the opening run | | **Accessibility** | The UK accent and cultural references may present a barrier for some international listeners | | **Feature Balance** | With only four features across ten tracks, some may wish for more collaborative moments | | **"Venom" Overexposure** | The track's viral success on TikTok somewhat diluted its original impact for some fans | --- ## Verdict *GREY Area* stands as a landmark in 21st-century British hip-hop—a record that proved commercial viability and artistic integrity need not be mutually exclusive. Little Simz's technical rapping ability, combined with Inflo's innovative production and the album's deeply personal storytelling, creates a work that feels both timely and timeless. The album's exploration of life's "grey areas"—the uncertainties of adulthood, the costs of ambition, the processing of grief—resonates beyond its specific cultural context. It's a record about becoming, about sitting with discomfort, and about finding power in vulnerability. **Rating:** 9/10 *GREY Area* is essential listening for anyone interested in the evolution of hip-hop, British music, or simply great storytelling. It announced Little Simz as an artist of major significance—and she has only grown more ambitious since.
Great album, such a talent
'If you're gonna talk on my name / Least say it w/ your chest.' Still her best record, tho she still didn't exactly miss w/ Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, GREY Area is a modern classic. Produced brilliantly by Inflo, the album is yet Simz and fully Simz, who is able, as few 'conscious' rappers are, to be poetical & musical, that is, to be lyric-conscious as well as flow-conscious. Crudely put, on GREY Area, her genre is not fucking spoken word, which is neither poetry nor hip-hop, but a corny hybrid. She's a rapper, a slamming, attitudinal rapper, & doesn't think that to be deep is to be more than that. 'Everything's imperative for the way I live / I know it's material but not irrelevant.' At 35 mins & 10 songs, no, it's not quite Illmatic, but it's close.
This is an album that is a true masterpiece of introspection, both personal and social, and a powerful and historic album in the UK.
Great record: Offence, Selfish and 101am classics
Je ne connaissais pas, une bonne surprise !! J’ai trouvé ça chouette
Such a pleasant surprise to see GREY Area on this list :’) Fav tracks: Offence, Wounds, Selfish, Boss, Venom, 101 FM, Pressure Saved a song: Y RYM: N
Surprised to find that I loved this straight away. Excellent.
Pretty good
Listened to while chauffeuring Charlie home. Favourite song: therapy.
Listened: in the car on the way to Weston upon Avon- could hear because Zach was listening to Thomas the Tank Beat song 101FM
Best rapper in the game.
Love this album with some of Simz’ best tunes.
I enjoyed this one! Fun energy to it.
Surprisingly good rap! One of the more fun discoveries in this list. Tracks to Track: Selfish, Sherbet Sunset
Eerlijk goed
I was listening to this album a lot during a very pivotal time in my life so I am unable to be objective in my judgement. I love the dusty dry production sound of this album, I love that it just cuts to the core with energy and simplicity. I love the range of moods here, especially the introspection. This is one of my favorite of the post-2010 picks on this list. Must-listen #242.
Sauceometer: Sauce Vibe: Driving in the city from daylight to nighttime What was I doing: listened throughout the day because I'd already listened Favorite Song(s): 101 FM/Sherbet Sunset Blurb: A Nickcore classic
Incredible rap album. Solid production, bars are fire. Great representation of the 'modern' UK rap scene (is 2019 still considered modern?)
I love her voice. Venom is so good. Several others got saved to my list too. So refreshing to hear a British female voice rapping.
Little Simz is pretty damn talented. I liked the lo fi feel this one has - the beats really let her shine.
Oh I like this a LOT actually
Already a fan of Little Simz (Lotus is fantastic); this is great. I love the production on it; very varied, and her flow is inventive and interesting. One of my favorite rap artists.
This was really great
Very cool to see Simz was added to this list - for me personally, the best modern rapper after Kendrick. Whilst I'm a big fan of her, i dont know if I've ever sat and listened to this album through, although i knew most of the songs. Chose to listen to this on the train up to London to watch the Arsenal, who she is also a fan of. Its a brilliant album, with 5 of the first 6 tracks all modern classic hip hop songs. She has amazing flow and a knack for some truly amazing tunes. Each of the guest slots fit well on the album. Id enforce anybody who enjoyed this to listen to the follow up album, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, which is another level up and a true modern classic. 9/10
The most recent album generated so far. Really impressed with this having previously come across Little Simz on Mercury Prize. Really impressed!
What an absolute breath of fresh air. I'd never heard this before and it was great. Little Simz is a skilled rapper with a lot to say about race, success, and the 27 club. The production was on point and the album was concise. I will definitely be listening to more of her music. Do I hear an Outkast sample in "Boss"?
Such an amazing album! I knew I liked Little Simz before getting this one and expected to give it 4 stars (since I'm saving the 5 start ratings for the albums which are like the top of the tops) and, here we are, ended up giving it 5 stars. Surely will listen to it again very soon!
Listened twice and I'm going back for more.
Бля, да это ахуенный альбом новой школы!
Love it. Production is so spot on for me. More to my tastes actually than her later albums which I listen to more. Lyrics feel more early career to - less jaded about her music industry experience!
Little Simz is absolutely amazing. The combination of fierce vocals and musical artistry are simply magical. Her music videos are also enthralling. Could gush all day.
That was fucking good. Beats and instruments were great, basslines even better. She's phenomenally talented at a variety of things, ranging from fast paced rap to slower singing. Imma have to listen to her other shit soon
Oooh. A very recent album. Neat. Since I feel like the editors of this book are fairly conservative about incorporating new stuff, the ones that do make it tend to be really good. Doing my research. Oh wow had no idea after almost a full listen that this singer was a woman. Interesting this album did well in the UK but didn't register at all in the states. I was surprised we had an album this recent by someone I'd never heard of. Also I didn't notice until it was called out, but there's basically no samples here. Apparently, the backing music was basically recorded Listening Notes: -Boss: didn't get the female empowerment when I thought the singer was a man here lol -Cool backing tracks. -Selfish: this is where I finally bought into the album -Flowers: Oooh I like Michael Kiwanuka hope they use him well. He's pretty solid, but this is not the barnburner of the album -Influence of Kendrick is really visible throughout, especially in the way she incorporates jazz, but she's doing her own thing (also this isn't a *journey* the way Kendrick's albums are--not a dig, just different) -Venom: very funny that Thundercat is on this--the main loves his bass-distorted vocals -After first listen, we're definitely in 4-5 territory. Really nice flow to the album. Chill vibe the whole time. And it's a tight 35 minutes. Review: Really really good. Just really smooth, well constructed, jazzy rap. I think if I kept listening to this a few more times, I'd have some deeper insights, but this review is late anyway, so I'll leave it at that. I don't necessarily feel like I connected as well with it as other albums, but I'm gonna round up to 5 anyway, because it's always exciting to get an album I've never heard of that's this good.
I have one note on this album. As someone who read "The Alchemist" and did not change, I feel personally attacked by it. In all other regards this is a perfect, surprisingly introspective rap album. No (other) notes. Five stars.
little simz, to me, is one of the GOATs of UK rappers. something about her style reminds me of the origins of rap itself--maybe the ease and clarity with which she speaks, maybe the softness through gritted teeth that characterizes a lot of the best female rappers (rhapsody, noname, Lauren Hill). production alone on this album is worth celebrating for its freshness and sophistication, but on top of that, as usual, much of it feels both deep and accessible at the same time. to me, not an easy feat.
This is brilliant. I love how simple the production on this is, she's doing so much by being fairly minimal. The lyrics are cool, relaxed but also poignant and visceral. I love the jazz influence behind the vocals and jazz drumming throughout. I really like hip hop that is easy to vibe with, its not that I dislike the heavier rap but I really love getting lost in the beats and vibes of an album like this. It reminds me of a less weird version of Noname, with cleaner production. I really loved this record.
Dizzee Rascal kreeg van mij een bonuspunt als vertegenwoordiger van een slecht vertegenwoordigd genre in de updates van het boek. Gelukkig kom ik er nu nog één tegen. En ondanks dat zij vrij bekend lijkt te zijn, kende ik alleen het nummer Venom (en weet ik nu van wie dat nummer is). Het ondervertegenwoordigde genre waar ik op doel, is de combinatie tussen beats/dubstep en rap. De creativiteit in de muziek versterkt over het algemeen de raps en lijkt de rappers uit te dagen de raps meer als muzikaal instrument te gebruiken. Ik doe deze dame wellicht wat te kort door haar in dit hokje te stoppen. Ze toont in het half uurtje best haar veelzijdigheid en knipoogt ook nog wel eens naar het verleden. En als rapper presteert ze ook prima. Ook de soms snelle teksten zijn prima te verstaan. Al met al is het de overtreffende trap van een geproduceerd album. Daar moet je van houden. Ik kan dat goed hebben. Al denk ik dat het een verstandige keuze is geweest, dat ze zich beperkt tot een half uur. 4,5 ster.
Really good. Liked the flow and the beats. Very diverse and tasteful music. Definitely loved 101fm. So nice to hear some traditional oriental element (guzheng and yangqin in the traditional Chinese do re mi sol la scale) in western music. Also now I know who Michael Kiwanuka is! Very talented artists, both of them!
this album was STELLAR. listened to it twice yesterday, and immediately saved it to the music library. Little Simz is absolutely masterful with her flow. her story telling is on fire this album as well. just an awesome listen, through and through.
I’ve heard of Simz before, but only knew the song 101 FM off this project. One of my favorite UK rap songs, but never felt compelled to explore her whole discography. the dude in the reviews getting mad over hearing the n word needs to grow up. This tape is phenomenal, trim [unlike so many rap projects (especially in the streaming era)], and the production is very clean. nothing is muddy or overblown. a fun album that doesn’t overstay its welcome
This album is so ridiculously good. The atmosphere is incredible. Little Simz is INSANE on the mic and the pen. Beats are always banger. I'm in awe
Ok finally something from the past decade! I’ve surprisingly never came across this project but I’m glad I did now. I absolutely loved it, her flow, the modern beat selection and the features were all perfectly placed. Any album that has Cleo Soul has me!
J'ai écris le texte suivant en écoutant l'album, déplaçant la job de mettre ça comme du monde le lendemain. Mais j'ai la flemardise au bout des doigts, faque débrouillez-vous: La fille Gorilla! Les goofy sounds effects, trop mon swag quoi, Hip-hop mais Mix rock + orchestral des Beasty Boys, funk/soul/rnb, un peu tango t'a l'heure messembe, mixage de qualité + richesse instru, contraste tounes aggressives et groovy avec pièces plus relax, tout bien dosé, drôle de voix = ++++cool. Fuck it 5
Wow, I have taken far too long to listen to an album by Little Simz. I was a little familiar with her work and had heard a few excellent singles but never managed to get around to a full album. I've been missing out. "Grey Area" is simply flawless. There's a brutal honesty in her lyrics that cut deep. Simz is a fierce MC and the music really packs a punch, shifting seemlessly between the thick, distorted bass of "Boss" into funky soul of "Selfish". Later, the dark, cinematic "Venom" gives way to the quirky highs of "101 FM". A bosss in a fucking dress indeed!
I KNEW THIS THROUGH VENOM SO IT WAS EXCITING TO SEEING IT RECOMMEND. BOSS IS MY FAVORITE
It feels like I’ve been giving a lot of 5s lately but if Pearl Jam got one, this deserves a 6. Little Simz kills it and the production is top tier. No skips at all. The drop on Venom is insane.
venom.... 😈😈
Solid! Lyrical genius with a beautiful flow! 5/5
Great rhymes and great back beats from beginning to end. All with no friggin' autotune. Leave it to the brits to take hip hop and do it better. Welcome surprise.
Absolute banger from a hugely talented artist. Love this recent addition to the list <3 Many great songs: Selfish, 101 FM, Pressure, to name a few favourites.
"Some people reads the Alchemist and still never amount to shit" I believe I listened to most of this years ago and it stood out but slipped through the cracks. I've listened to her 2022 project and grew eager to see where Little Simz would go. I was great to finally absorb this more and pick up on the lyrics and overall narrative. Listening to this after Lauryn Hill also gave me an interesting perspective due to them having many of the same themes but 20 years and an entire continent apart. The synth on Boss feels like something Tyler, the Creator/Roy Ayers would add for texture and its beautiful. They layering and mixing on Venom is otherworldly adding suspense and unease to her career in a male dominated field. Therapy and Sherbet Sunset also stood out. Lots of variety and no reliance on features. Excited to hear what she does on Lotus in June.
Very good. Listened to it twice. Reminded me of tribe called quest but edgier.
Fire
This is just so good.
Waar Nirvana het boegbeeld van begin jaren 90 was, zal Little Simz later misschien bekend staan als het boegbeeld van eind de jaren 10, begin jaren 20. En ook dit is een fantastisch album. De drie albums die hierna komen? Minstens even goed. 4.5
Made me discover a new artist who became an instant favourite. Great music and I love when I can understand the words!
Amazing album! Great artist that deliveres a fantastic experience. Love it!
I like the distortion and horn elements
Not my usual thing, but I actually really liked it. Have listened about 3 times already.
I came in with kinda low expectations which is honestly the way to do this list. I was blown away. Loved the wide amount of instruments involved. I was thinking it was giving me slight Michael Kiwanuka vibes and he collabs on the last track! Venom was a highlight for me but I loved it all a lot.
yeah yeah yeah this is the stuffffff
incredible album. one of, if not THE best female rapper to come out of the UK.
Hard to express how happy I am that Simz is getting recognition on a list like this. I'm tons of people will be unimpressed and not understand her inclusion but she's one of my favorite musicians so I am going to celebrate it. This particular album is simple, concise, but still has a feel all its own with just very high quality in every aspect - instrumentals, lyricism, and performance. I would say it's pretty subtle in most of these aspects; it won't hit you over the head or might not be mindblowing at any point, but just undeniably fantastic. Simz truly is a Boss in a f***ing dress. 9/10
All time great
Blown away by this album, I do already like her Introvert album but this album really shows how diluted rap has become, relying too much on sampling and voice changers. This brings it back to its core.
5/5 Simz's straight, passionate, killer flows permeate the fantastic varied instrumentals brilliantly. There are catchy hooks and elements of lush production foreshadowing SIMBI, but GREY Area has its own energy. From the dark Venom to the bass-driven Boss to the east Asian-video game infused 101 FM, it's simply a tight, consistent album of well-written bangers. Inflo and Simz deserve their place as one of the best rapper-producer duos of the modern era. Offence 4.5/5 Boss 5/5 (FAV) Selfish 5/5 Wounds 5/5 Venom 4.5/5 101 FM 4/5 (LEAST FAV) Pressure 4.5/5 Therapy 5/5 Sherbet Sunset 5/5 Flowers 4.5/5
Simz, hva kan jeg si
awesome
cliseitä cliseitä... ei kiinnosta kun ei heikkouksia arvoida vaan albumia arvoidaan ei heikkouksia...
From the top, I'm inclined to like Little Simz. Oh, and not because SOMETIMES I MIGHT BE INTROVERT was such a highly acclaimed album, bo; I haven't even heard it. No, it's actually 'coz she already has the "Gorillaz feature" seal of approval. I figure, hey, if I like her there, I'm probably bound to dig her on her own shit. Which, I mean, that isn't a **100%** rule (Martina Topley-Bird was on a Gorillaz song and I didn't like MAXINQUAYE at all, even if it hasn't **her** album), but I get the feeling following it will land more hits than misses. And, hey — I'd consider this another hit. Like, as someone who's melody first, this thing has some damn good beats. "Offence", for real? Dang. "101FM", too. I just hadda groove to it in my seat. On that front alone, it gets good marks from me. Then there's Little Simz as a rapper — a British rapper, specifically. Now, sure, there's a lot of points over the album where I thought to myself, "Is this the only tone of voice she's gonna have the whole album? Everything, in this one tone of voice? Goodness." On a lesser album, that sort of thing would've dropped the whole project down a few points — "Try a bit more variety," y'know? "Try being **interesting**." But, I'unno, matched with these beats and the topics I was able to catch... I'unno, it kept me engaged. It all just worked. You back her up with a few stellar features (including, hey, someone else with the Gorillaz seal, Little Dragon), and... Ahh, goodness. It's all so good. (The entire thing's not even 40 minutes, too, so, dang, this thing goes down pretty easy, I think.) So, this album did the best thing it really could have: make me actually wanna go and check out SOMETIMES I MIGHT BE INTROVERT. "If Little Simz is this good here, imagine if **that** lives up the hype!" On the fact of that alone I could give this a 4. But judging it on its own merits — heck, I'll bump it to a 5. Honestly, I really did enjoy it that much. No "grey area" for me. (I mean, is it cheesy to shove in the album title like that as a closing line? I'unno. But I'm tellin' yah: the Gorillaz seal of approval works.)
As someone who only knew Simz from her collab with Gorillaz, this really impressed me with how much I dug it, especially considering the other British rap/hiphop artists we've gotten on our journey so far. 4.5 bumped up to 5.
I’m at a 5. This album has a very unique balancing act to follow, and it rides that tightrope incredibly well. This is an album that deconstructs toxic confidence, yet still portrays a healthy confidence while lifting up female empowerment. It shows the honest struggle of a devil-may-care attitude, yet still shows the honesty of wanting to make an impact, both at a local and global level. It’s an album that attempts to find beauty in tragedy, and yet, no matter how hard she tries, she never quite succeeds at finding it. That last one’s not a diss at her; it’s a testament to her songwriting that she refuses to sugarcoat this stuff, but still manages to present it in such a captivating way. It’s a very push-and-pull driven album, a lot of which feels based on her own personal experiences, and that honesty is what truly sells this album. I can’t think of many current rappers that could pull an album like this off – so much of modern mainstream rap culture, save for a handful of artists, places value within the material things, so to get an album like this, one that tries to lift up the soul itself as the core of all earthly possessions is such a welcome message & a breath of fresh air. It’s also a breath of fresh air to get an artist I’m familiar with – Little Simz is fantastic, and while I hadn’t listened to this album before today, I have heard her 2021 album “Sometimes I Might Be Introvert”, which genuinely deserves a spot on the 1,001 albums list as much as this one does. This was great – really strong production throughout, the occasional showcase of some crazy flows, great storytelling & lyricism across the board, and it’s just a really tight 35 minutes that leaves no stone unturned. I do think “Sometimes I Might Be Introvert” is an even better album, but this one easily sets the framework in motion for that album to exist and thrive like it has. I really liked this; easy 5 for my tastes.
A modern classic, maybe my favourite British rap album tbh. Fave Tracks: Offence, Boss, Selfish, 101FM, Pressure, Sherbet Sunset 4.5/5
I had only heard a few tracks from Little Sims, but she is incredible, great dark beats and lyrics and flow to match. Really all tracks are mint this is a must listen too. Stand out tracks: - Offence - Boss - Wounds - Venom - Therapy - Flowers
Little Simz is one of my favourite artist of the 2020s and definitely my favourite rapper. I saw her in concert a few years back and it was probably one of the best concerts I've been to. My favourite album by her is "Sometimes I Might Be Introvert" which is way more laid-back and jazzy than this. I think that album is too new for this list, being released in 2021. Anyway, on to this album. I really like the beats and vibes of this album. The beats are aggressive and Simz rhymes flows are just great. Coming out swinging from the get go with "Offence". The most famous track is "Venom" and it might be the first Simz track I heard. Her raps are not the strongest on that track but man the drum beat after the word "Venom" is really great. "101 FM" is also one of my favourite tracks on the album as well as "Selfish" and "Sherbet Sunset" which is more like the later album. All in all as always high quality from "Simz" and while it's not my favourite album by her it still deserves a 5.
Best yet VENOM
Seriously some of the coolest beat production I've heard on an album since Dre. There so much musicality in them and you don't get the feeling that you're just listening to a back track only there to give the rapper something to flow off of, but it's an integral part of the song. And the grime scene lyrics are so good. I can really appreciate a break from the whole 'bitches ain't shit but hoes and tricks' shit. There's a lot of variety on this one too. There's not just one style of beat, there isn't just one flow. Everything you want to see in a rap album.
Great lyricism for most songs
I haven't been this blown away by a 'recent' record in some time. From the first note it draws you in. Every song gives more. Beautiful words. Jaw-dropping style and delivery. Production on point. A perfect album Stone cold *5
Little simz has bars! Thought this was very good. Listened twice. Never heard her before. Nice to have some UK rap on the list. Really good flow and writing I thought, and of substance too. Highlights: Venom 101 FM Pressure I'll be back. 4
This is way more interesting than I expected it to be. Her flow is pretty good and the music is also dope. Usually I really despise Rap at all. This is good music.
lyrical mastery
Really solid album. Incredibly varied but with a distinct tone and character shining through. I hadn’t heard of Little Sims before this and I’m really glad this project made me aware of her.
Truly lush and breezy UK hip hop. I loved it.
As one of the latest additions to 1001 Albums to Hear Before You Die, it’s easy to be sceptical of Grey Area. Don’t be. In just 36 minutes, Little Simz delivers a masterclass in lyrical precision over a simultaneously modern and timeless production that fuses jazz flourishes with the grit of hip-hop and grime. The inclusion of live instrumentation adds a fresh dynamic. Tackling relationships, the struggles of adulthood, and mental health, Simz remains assertive throughout, dropping truth bombs with confidence—even when confronting the darkest moments. Did/Do I own this release? No Does this release belong on the list? No Would this release make my personal list? Strong candidate Will I be listening to it again? For sure
Really cool jazz hip hop. 5/5
Absolutely incredible, very powerful
no notes, made me cum
This album is a lyrical masterpiece that blends grit with grace. The British rapper's flow is smooth as butter and her lyrics hit harder than a heavyweight boxer. She tackles everything from societal issues to personal struggles with a raw honesty that's both refreshing and empowering. It's a must-listen for anyone who appreciates intelligent, thought-provoking hip-hop.
Fakker med det ass, 4.5
fimma simz cookaði
I listened to sometimes i may be introvert before this one, but it's cool to see how Little Simz tone and clear understanding of her strengths and weaknesses sounds just as good over a glitchier electronic style album as it does over R&B and soul samples.
August 16, 2024 HL: "Selfish", "Wounds", "Venom", "101 FM", "Pressure", "Flowers" My curiosity about this album soared after getting the 2021 edition of the book. The front cover: Nevermind by Nirvana, very famous album cover, makes sense. Back cover: a black-and-white picture of, well, somebody I had never seen before. Oh, it's English rapper Little Simz! Side-by-side with Nirvana? Alright. I didn't actually listen to the whole thing before today, but I put on 2021's S.I.M.B.I. after the Simz hype finally reached me... this year. Actually that's not accurate, since I bought both this CD & Kiwanuka in a mall, after recognizing both artists from the book, *over a year ago*. Didn't think it would take this long to get either of them on the generator, but I can finally say the purchase was worth it. After acclimating to certain tracks like "Venom", "I Love You, I Hate You" (SIMBI), and "Gorilla" (2022's No Thank You), throughout the past year, I'm not exactly surprised that I like this whole album. The rawness of "Sherbet Sunset" & "Boss", next to the beauty in "Selfish" & "Flowers", delineates how fine-tuned the elements of Grey Area are; never overpowering each other, and often existing simultaneously (e.g. "101 FM") I haven't been the most enthusiastic about hip-hop recently (let alone British hip-hop) but to me, this is up there with the greats.
This slaps - her flows are awesome and the production is sick, and as others have noted, it's short and sweet - no skit bloat on this album! As an aside, I was listening to Herbie Hancock's "Head Hunters" immediately before this, and the backing track on "Offence" could absolutely have been a "Head Hunters" bonus track - confused me for a second there! 😆 Fave tracks - as well as "Offence", "Venom" is absolutely BADASS - gave me spine tingles!
The first album by Little Simz I heard was Sometimes I Might Be An Introvert and I was very impressed but I never went back and listened to this album and now I wish I had. GREY Area is incredible. The production is so meticulously crafted by Inflo utilizing some insane instrumentation, samples and drums. If you’re a fan of this album you should check out Inflo’s other project Sault which I’m also a fan of. Little Simz has some amazing flows and lyrics that kept me locked in for the whole ride. Always good to see Little Dragon getting a feature as well as Cleo Soul and Michael Kiwanuka, all phenomenal artists. The only downside to this album is that’s it’s over so quickly but it’s very effective to have 10 bangers at 35 minutes as opposed to a more overstuffed project. I’ll be repeating this one for a couple days.
Ah, nice choice. Little Simz is probably the best rapper about today, certainly the most interesting. Great flow, great lyrics, great beats, tinged with soul and jazz, and dirty great bass lines. What else do you want? Didn't know this record but I loved Sometimes I Might Be Introvert. That's even more genre-hopping and boundary pushing than this. However this is just over half the length, real nice and concise. Best tracks, Venom, Therapy, Flowers
Surprisingly lo-fi in places, sounds almost like a mo'wax record, but also British and urban and modern. Loved it all.
Really good rap record. First I had heard of Little Simz but one of my favorites. Offence is good. Selfish is great. There's a great line about how reading the Alchemist some times don't amount to shit which is funny/true. She's got a cool voice and great production.
Hard
Introvert by Little Simz is an album I really like, so when this came up I was really excited to get into it - I’ve heard it before, but as I knew Introvert better that was my go to so this was always second. I have been living my life wrong - this is better and (I think) will be my first 5 star album from this list. It made me happy, it made me tear up, and most importantly it made me think of Venom 2: Let There Be Carnage. Favourite track: Sherbet Sunset.
No grey area here. Solid five star performance.
I really enjoyed this album. It's fresh.
Really like her beats and the minor keys she uses. Australian accent? Accent is cool too.
From 'Offence' through 'Selfish', 'Venom', and 'Therapy' there's basically nothing I would like to be different on 'GREY Area'. Little Simz is a phenomenon.
GREY Area is the album where you started to realize that Little Simz could be one of the greatest rappers of her generation.
Awesome record - short poignant - aggressive in the beginning - introspective towards the end - kind of M.I.A without the conspiracy theories.
absolutely amazing love her sm
Modern classic
This is a great album, a repeat for me.
Very much in my comfort zone. UK rap is one of my favorite genres. No skips, awesome album.
Very well made album! The lyrics were beautiful, so deep and full of stories. I listened to this album multiple times
Really good album -- I was suprised. Little Simz has some great music. Love Venom.
Offence? Zersch denkt "hella yeah da tönt ja richtig geil" aber wtf macht de *Bugs Bunny running* Soundeffekt im Hintergrund?? I guess artistic liberty aber wer chan sich mit sowas im hintergrund die musik unironically geh? De rest findi aber echt sehr guet und han sogar es lied zwei uf mini liked playlist due. 4.7/5
You can really hear her accent in the vocals. The beats are unique and aren’t too repetitive. I listened all the way through twice on purpose
This was absolutely incredible. One of the best I've listened to since starting this. I immediately relistened to this album and then moved on to listening to other albums she's done. Incredible stuff
Super cool british female rapper. Great album, unique and very fun to listen to. 9/10
I didn’t expect to like this so much. There are some moments musically that I could do without but I like her flow and how raw the lyrics are. I love Michael Kiwanuka too, so that brought this album from 4 to 5 for me. Favorite track: Venom
I'm skeptical whenever an album outside the original 1001 comes up, and having one so relatively recent is another eyebrow raiser, but god damn this was brilliant. Hard hitting from the first few seconds when the bass kick in and doesn't let up for the full 35 minutes, probably about as perfect as you'll come across in this list.
I am surprised how much I love this album. Listen to it again :)
This was great. Totally new to me. Never heard of her. Everything was good. Good groove, easy to listen to and enjoy. Quality all around. Very nice surprise.
solid
Favorite tracks: Venom, 101 FM, Therapy, Sherbet Sunset
Great delivery like Eminem, incredible grooves and catchy hooks and melodies to go with her MC. It's a short album, but truly not a weak one in the group.
Chill
This was a certified slapper. Just so good and after listening to all the old albums you can really see how modern artists take pieces from all and make something new.
Absolutely slaps, heck. The production is clever, flow is impeccable, album composition is perfect. Chefs kiss Highlights: Venom and Pressure
Great flow and beats. Really enjoyed.
Dude bars and production. Hot damn.
Simz is goated
This is for me
GREAT album one of her best!
Low key precise verses delivered with raw intensity bring this Black British woman’s experiences to life in vivid color.
Best track is selfish
Love her, listened to both SIMBI and NO THANK YOU, phenomenal artist
Amazing artist. Stunning wordsmith
Great grime record with fun African sensibilities.
Great vocals and such a range of instrumentals
An amazing find. Truly blown away by the English Hip Hop album.
A really fresh sounding album that stands out from the crowd, featuring a tasty blend of rap, jazz and rock. I particularly enjoyed the fuzz bass, distorted vocals, creepy keyboards and flute on the opening 'Offence'. What an amazing drum sound!
I heard of her from the mecury and she keeps popping up in top boy. But wow what an album great sounds great lyrics. Was fresh and orginal.
My favorite song is venom
i somehow wasn't very consciously aware of little simz before listening to this, but that has been permanently corrected
Good flow and great instrumentals
- Heard this before but not listened to it for a while - Forgot how good this is - One of the best hip hop albums of the past decade, and somehow the album sje released after this one is even better - Not a bad song on this - Fav songs: 101 FM, Selfish, Venom
Блин, как же стилево все звучит + классные текста и читка Послушал с удовольствием 2 раза
This kid got the juice. Still not sure if a guy or girl.
Loved the orchestral background tracks. I thought this was going to be mumble rap but the lyrics/music was incredible.
It was a brilliant album. It's aggressive, heartbreaking at times, empowering at others, and sounding just so delightfully British
this album is WAY more interesting than The Who's "Who's Next" Wounds sounds like a murder mystery soundtrack but with Little Simz rapping over it 101 FM is so boppy haha the beat is so fun and sounds like a traditional Japanese song turned into a video game soundtrack plus Little Simz nonchalant drill rapping aight I've listened to this album at least 3 times today and it's pretty darnnn good. it feels kinda jazzy and Little Simz makes rapping sound so easy. i doubted the 1001 albums yesterday but I'll be darn tootened if i wasn't excited for the next one. the quality of GREY Area seems a lot higher after The Who. the delivery is effortless and exceptional, the content of the raps is funny but I need to listen more to get a deeper meaning. interesting and exciting beats make this album a fun one to listen to, Little Simz always sounds like she's gaining power like a shonen character.
GOATED
Never heard of this artist before, but after listening to this album, I am already a huge fan. The beats are awesome and the raps are top notch. Very skilled rapper. Looking forward to checking out their other work!
Wow! An absolute blinder of an album.
a modern rap masterpiece. utterly perfect
BIG fan of the orchestration, this is beautifully layered and sounds so easy even though it's intricate. Not a track goes by without a killer baseline, and her lyrics are smooth and thoughtful. Her accent is almost another instrument, I'm just nuts about this sound. Didn't take notes on specific tracks so didn't take note of any standouts, but this is fantastic. 5/5 stars.
This is fire, I love the beats and she has a crazy flow! I love how she starts and stops her vocals in Offence. Boss goes so hard: "At 23 sold dreams to my side / see God when you look me in my eyes" YO! Venom is insane! Hardest line on the album: "I'll just keep it real, truth won't be concealed / Please don't listen to this and ask me if I'm hurtin' or if I'm okay / Allow me to be human and be in my feels / Chill, I'm good, I got it / I never lost it / Or am I just lying to myself to skip the topic?"
Rating: 10/10
Exceptional skill. 101FM is the highlight
Wow, I really enjoyed this. Great flow, insightful lyrics, real skill on display. I'm looking forward to listening to it again and getting more out of it.
Not into modern hip-hop, but this lady is brilliant
Very good.Nice to see more modern stuff on the list.The instruments are nice and the album is kinda stripped back in parts.I like simz’s delivery and lyrics,good.
I was really surprised by this album. I was expecting something more copycat of 90s hip-hop or even some trap, and both could be nice when well conceived. However, I got something different, maybe in the middle of these two styles. I see some 90s reflections and early trap but with a lot of jazz and classic R&B that made me feel good listening to it. I enjoyed the lyrics, too, and I'll check other Little Simz albums.
Raw, vulnerable, defiant, slick. Astonishing how much is packed into just 35 minutes.
My first 5/5 with this list and well deserved. I've been meaning to check out some of Little Simz work for a while due to high praise, and I see why. Every track was great, and she is one hell of an emcee. Lots of personality, writing ability, and impact. Production on this was also excellent front to back. Short and sweet album; no filler and all great.
very cool
The goat Light 9
Little Simz is the stage name of London rapper Simbi Abisola Abiola Ajikawo. For someone who is only 29, she has accomplished so much!! She has had some acting gigs, and has released 5 studio albums up to this point. This one I am reviewing today is her third. Simz states that Biggie Smalls, Nas, and Lauryn Hill were huge influences for her. I was a huge fan of Simz's style of music, mixing rapping and singing parts together, and from time to time rapping in a "chopping" style (rapping very fast). The flow she achieves is amazing! I was happy to see that the song Flowers featured Michael Kiwanuka (who I've reviewed on here before, and thoroughly enjoyed). Overall, a phenomenal album today, and one that completely blind sided me. I assumed when I saw her stage name that I would be dealing with a shitty "rap/pop" group like Juice WRLD, Lil Peep, or Lil Nas X, especially given the fact that the album dropped in 2019. However, that is not what this was at all. This was closer to 90's - early 00's rap (Like Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, or Eminem). Very thoroughly enjoyed this album today. Listened to it 3 times in fact! Favourite songs: Boss, Venom, Flowers, Therapy, Offence, Pressure Least favourite songs: if forced to pick, Wounds 5/5
Love this. Can't believe I skipped it when it came out.
Really did not expect to like this as I'm not a huge rap fan, and most rap I do enjoy is from the 80s and 90s. However I loved the beats, lyrics, and general flow of this album. The production and use of sound effects was top notch as well. The content was poignant, aggressive, but also descriptive and empathetic. 5/5 Favorites: 101 FM, Selfish, Wounds Least Favorites:
Amaze. Legendary.
Big ol' fan. I had been recommended a Little Simz song a couple weeks ago from a different album and really enjoyed it so I was pleased to get offered up this one. Super fun, unique music production with all sorts of different vibes and instrumentations. Weird notice but she must have a metronome in her head because she raps so fucking on-beat it's insane. Big fan of all of it. especially 'Offence' 'Boss' and '101 FM'
Good stuff!!
SLAPS. absolute bop after bop.
Feeling, passion, introspection, great live instrumentation. Boss, which was one of the most famous songs off the album was actually my least favourite, which is strange as I usually love confrontational music. Had Jasmine Sullivan yesterday, and whilst I enjoyed that, the energy of this blows it out the water.
No stress I'm a boss in a fucking dress. Simz has found space to rap about her lived experiences and the prejudices she has faced in summiting the music industry. Innovative samples, traditional Chinese to Rasta to grime
I refuse to believe that British hip hop has evolved this far from trash like the streets in less than 20 years. Two albums from this genre managed to get into my 1 stars while this honestly might make it into my 5 star dependent on how much I listen to it tomorrow because it’s great from the lyrics to the beats to the overall sound.
Speak King! What amazing production! I dig the dialect hard. This is great.
A contemporary classic and one of the best hip hop albums of all time.
I really like this!
4.6 - Not a wasted rhyme, bum sample or lame collab on here. Just a lean, ferocious onslaught of bars. Little Simz expounds authoritatively about her life and her ambitions and her flow is bulletproof. Even reading the lyrics alongside her delivery has my head spinning. All 10 tracks are bangers but I'd highlight a few moments: "Venom" sounds like a counterpoint to the dick-wielding "For Free?" by Kenrick Lamar; I love the vaporwave-y samples on "101 FM" and the message on "Therapy."
Actually really fucking good
I was surprised to see such a new album in the list. When I saw that it was Little Simz however, I was no longer that surprised. I first heard Simz on Gorillaz' 2017 track "Garage Palace" but she has only gone from strength to strength and is now a pretty mainstream name in the UK. This album does not disappoint in the slightest - Simz has absolutely amazing flow, and the instrumentation and production is superb. There's a couple of chill tracks, and some tracks full of fire and venom, and while I'm not too sure about some of the lyrics (I thought we were past the point of rhyming the n-word with the n-word...) the absolutely unreal flow and rhythm of Simz' rapping makes up for it. Great album, and I'm glad to see Simz made the list. Favourite: Selfish
Jay Z on a bad day and Shakespeare on a worse day, Little Simz allows us to explore her grey area and see what makes her tick. One of the most enigmatic rappers around today, she uses her thirty-five minutes wisely and without any intention to waste, getting her point across and passing further heights with her illustrative world building.
I love this album and have listened to it many times before. It's one of my favorite hip hop albums of recent times and I think Little Simz is one of the best rappers working today. Great instrumentals and production throughout too, she went to to build and improve on this even further on her next album.
This was new to me and totally great.
A breath of fresh air after some recent ponderous rap album listens. Great musical arrangements, clever and smart rap, and a strong feeling of honesty really elevates this. I appreciated how lean it was compared to some of the sprawling, way too long recent selections in this genre. Exciting to have something I wasn’t looking forward to surprise me. Really great!
This was such an unexpected surprise. I won’t lie. I thought it was Jaden Smith on the cover! Little Simz is so freaking good. Every single track was fire. I added every track to a playlist in Spotify and this goes in heavy rotation.
Really solid album. Cool flow and fantastic instrumentation. I’m here for all of her creative choices
it’s not as good as her latest, but still an excellent album.
bello figo variegato giovane
Yo, 5 out of 5! So hype on it.
Ummmm…wow I’ve heard songs of this before, but this experience as an album is crazy. She is angry, bitter, and has the hunger and skill to back up everything she says. You can’t look for much more in a record - I’m in love. Thanks Simbi - My first 5 😘
This fucking slaps. Little Simz says the n-word with a hard R sometimes (not bad or anything, but definitely shocking a bit considering how American rappers do it). Again, this fucking slaps, and it might be the first non-Slick Rick British rap that I enjoyed?
Wow! I'd heard her more recent album, SIMBI and had been blown away. But this album was way better than I'd expected, why was it not huge. The combo of incredibly versatile emotive bars, the blaxploitation soundtrack adjacent sleaze funk of the beats and the wide subject matter... This is a modern hip hop classic. I may buy it tomorrow! If you do one track, check the Busta style fire at the start of Venom.
Awesome
Brilliant. Just packed with invention and cool ideas, some amazing lyrics and flow. Not what I was expecting, but absolutely lives up to the hype.
Liked thisva lot. Intricate and varied backing tracks took me on a journey...accompanied by passionate, agile lyrics. Will be listening more
Great Album. Surprised. I would have never listened
This is aggressive. The lowend never disappoints.
God she’s so good
Yeah, this is fucking great
Smashing. The beats are immense and whilst I'm not hugely into rap the lyrical dexterity of Little Simz is something to be admired. Cutting content, a great British talent
nytænkende, fede beats, UK, progressivt, en moderne klassiker
Это мощно
Vraiment une decourte qui en vaut la peine. Fait longtemps jai pas entendu du bon rap comme ca 5
catchy, layered, and pretty brilliant
Interesting.. why does it sound like another version of Eminem debuting but from a parallel universe
Not my style but still interesting
Whoa! Yesterday, I generated an album released in 2020, and today, I get a 2019 album. Anyway, there will always be some grey area, but for the most part, this album kicked some ass. The production reminded me of listening to some club bangers in the early 2000s. Favorite Track: "Offence".
Yur i loved that! Listened on beach - litch perfect album Makes me want to listen to more Little Simz honestly so I am gonna do that!
muuito foda
A strong 4.5. For me, this would have been a 5 if I found a banger on the album that I would play on repeat. However, the sound is phenomenal, the instrumentation is great, and the overall flo is enjoyable. Much better than the 70s rock I get all the time for this generator.
Groovey. Cool and pissed off.
I really liked it, the variety of vibes between songs was really interesting. Certified saved to my library
I'm amazed that I enjoyed that. This is the first non-us rap that I've listened through and it was much more understandable for me. The one thing that bugs me is the use of the n-word by a non-us performer - it just sounds weird. It's like a British or Australian performer unironically using 'y'all' in a song. Anyway, great album.
Damn, I had heard a couple Little Simz songs before &, as I usually do, didn’t listen to a back catalogue. This was fantastic
35 minutes?! All songs good?!? They did it. An album worth listening to before you die
Ceci était EXCELLENT
Great flow, interesting lyrics and some good beats. Punchy and doesn't have much filler, will definitely have another listen.
I really don't like hip hop, but this woman is clearly talented and charismatic, there's still music beyond rapping.
Pretty good overall, some tracks get a little corny
best track: sherbet sunset
Her first couple of albums didn’t quite land with me but this, her 3rd outing, was the one to sit up and take note, it’s not her best album but at just 35 mins, this is pretty tight, a great platform to go on and do her best work.
Another UK artist I hadn't heard of. I really enjoyed this. What I heard here seemed really fresh and new. I am definitely going to give it another listen.
I am thankful for this generator. I would have never listened to an English rap album made in 2019. I am glad that I did. This was much better than I expected. I thought it would be Drill, or Trap with autotuned xanax raps, but instead found this to be extremely creative and Little Simz to be an actual great rapper.
Thought this was really good, beats were catching and the lyrics were powerful. Had never really listened to much of the artists before, but exactly what this daily challenge is for, discovering new music, and I’m here for it
Good hip hop but not quite a 5
Little Simz is such a talent. I think her next album Sometimes I Might Be Introvert is even better.
Love Selfish. Boss was just okay. Don't love Venom. Like 101FM, vaguely Asian motif. In general enjoyed this.
I don't think I'd ever heard of this artist. It's a great album. Production is solid and inventive. Would not have normally gravitated to this artist and am glad to have heard the album.
quite british. great bass, good delivery and rhythm, decent diction, writing seems pretty good. arrangements are very economic
Typical, you go weeks without getting a rap album and then it generates 3 in a row. Not complaining though, this was a good album
Better than Coldplay
wow
Hadn’t heard of this artist before and wasn’t sure what to expect. I appreciated the lyricism and thought this was a very good example of recent music but I’m not likely to revisit this one. I can still appreciate it for what it is.
Very surprised by this. I was concerned about a 2019 rap album but this won me over immediately. The production on it is kind of bizarre in a fascinating way. And the actual rapping was interesting and good in a way that most newer rap I’ve heard isn’t
Offence - 4/5 Boss - 3/5 Selfish - 3.5/5 Wounds - 4.5/5 Venom - 3.5/5 101 FM - 5/5 Pressure - 4/5 Therapy - 4/5 Sherbet Sunset - 3.5/5 Flowers - 3/5
Parts of this are sensational. Some of the rapping is top level. Not every song is as memorable as the best, but this is as good as UK hip hop gets.
313/1089 been meaning to listen to some Little Simz for a while and i’m glad it didn’t disappoint! just some really good UK Rap/Hip-Hop i think it blended the “harsher” and more melodic styles pretty nicely faves: 101 FM, Flowers, Sherbet Sunset 77/100
I wasn't sure what to expect from this as I only had a passing knowledge of the name Little Simz and I had apperantly heard Venom before without knowing the artist behind it, but I was pleasantly surprised and happy to say I enjoyed this quite a bit. Especially nice to get a pretty new record compared to my list thus far. Simz really glides over these beats with a smooth rhyme flow and rapid fire delivery. Selfish in particular has an amazing chorus courtesy of Cleo Sol to say nothing of how smooth this beat is. The drums pack an incredible punch on that track in particular, but throughout the whole project the drums stand as one of my favorite parts. Every collaborator on here provides a nice contrast from Simz and add quite a bit to their respective songs. Production on here is just incredible in general, great instrumentation on hip hop albums is always a plus for me. Definitely interested in hearing more from her as this was lovely.
Actually, let the British rap even more. I love the flow.
Really late to this but DAMN. I loved this quite a lot. I thought the vocals and delivery were honestly really good and have made me want to explore Little Simz a lot more.
Offence // Selfish // 101 FM //
It's good! Wide variety of sounds that Simz finds the pocket in every time. My main issue is the production on some of the songs doesn't really stand out as much as others. Songs like "Venom" and "101 FM" have amazing production, but I'm left forgetting some beats like "Therapy". Great lyrics, great flows, but just a step in the right direction for production.
4.0
Love Simzy. Her flow is strong, the beats are fire and there is real variation and consistency of quality. None of the usual off putting rap lyrics about hoes and stuff. My only complaint is i think she gets better across the next 2 albums but i'll listen to this all day long.
Funny, I had Michael Kiwanuka's 2019 album yesterday. This album is high energy and at 35 minutes, it's a ripper. Big fan of excellent pacing like this. Not heard of Little Simz before, but I enjoyed this album very much. Her flow is really solid and the lyrics are genuinely really clever.
Genuinely very amazing, sequences were so smooth and extremely well made, lots of genres I didn't expect to mash well, very shocked I hadn't heard of this artist before.
I enjoyed this album a lot. I liked the rapper voice and flow. It had a range of feeling I appreciate. If love to listen to it again. 4/5
I liked this much more than I was expecting. Standout style and let me clap right now…👏👏👏 the songs are perfect length and the album as a whole, perfect length.
La verdad que me sorprendió completamente, es un muuuy buen álbum en el que Little Simz se abre y en sus letras e impecable fraseo toca temas como el ego, su importancia en la industria siendo mujer, la pérdida de un amor y las vivencias del barrio, todo acompañado de unas bases increíbles con unos bajos que te hacen temblar la cabeza, me encantó.
Wasn't expecting to enjoy this one as much as I did. Simz is skillful, and has a great flow. But I love the backing tracks - very trip-hoppy and smooth without being too laid back. Really solid hip-hop. I hated the kiss-off song "Sherbet Sunset;" it just felt kind of pedestrian. But everything else was pretty solid. I have to give it - FOUR STARS
… huh. I was so ready to hate this from the jump but it really grew on me. It’s so easy for young folks writing about heartbreak to sound inauthentic, but this didn’t make my eyes roll. Quite like the backing stuff too. 3.5 but a bump for an extremely pleasant surprise
This is one of those cases where it's not quite the kind of music I'd regularly listen to, but I can definitely appreciate how good the album is. The beats are cool, the rhyming is great...I enjoyed it more than I was anticipating.
Really enjoyable listen this one. British rap in general I find to be of a pretty high quality, this album included. The vocals flow smoothly, the samples are catchy. This album made me think of Loyal Carner a little
This one was perfect to listen to while working today. I was not excited about it being a rap album at first but it has interesting twists. Pretty relaxing.
Boss is a highlight track for me but the whole album is really good.
Great lyrics, instruments over samples, good stuff. Rounding up from a 3.5.
I enjoyed this. More than I thought I would because the track I’ve been most exposed to on the radio 101 FM is easily the worst song on the album. Loses a bit of steam later on but the start is strong enough to carry it.
Had this on repeat the summer after it came out and not at all since. This took me right back.
First impression — this sounds like Kate Tempest. The rapping style, the English accent, even the quality of her voice. Also hear Sault in the music and beats especially on the second track, Boss. Liked the reggae influence mixed in. Pleasantly surprised with this one! Found myself wanting to listen multiple times. This is one of those records on this list that is newer (2019), so will it stand the test of time yet? It’s catchy, and interesting and raw and direct. I think so. Really good one that I’d never heard of before.
Not my favourite style of music but there’s lots of talent and poetic messaging
This was so good. There’s texture and mood from beginning to end. Offence, Selfish, Flowers are so faves.
lil SIM card could tap my phone again this was fun
Música para entrenar, me gusta
Positiv bekjentskap
Better than all of the English hip hop I’ve heard from this list.
4.something, would listen to more by her
Fun, chill modern rap. She’s British so it’s fun to hear the accent in the rap. This is one of the most recent albums so far and I like that it feels current. One of the songs was in the movie Venom
Not even her best album.
Can't believe I was able to look past the accent on this one. Really fun listen. Refreshing to hear something from the 21st century again.
Great flow throughout the album. Nice to have something this decade
A really interesting case of production being the core strength of a record. I love hip-hop with a really natural sound to it and I've always preferred sample-based beats/beats with live instrumentation to what's become the modern sound (which I suppose is more or less trap that I'm talking about, but still). I can appreciate her voice and her lyricism at points, and especially her penchant for a hook ("Selfish" going from these fast-paced verses to the lush, catchy chorus is a beautiful combo).
Outstanding. Just outstanding
K1nda got smthing
3.5 Surprisingly good :)
Crisp, concise, classy
I a big fan of Little Simz, so four stars automatically. She played a wonderful show at EOTR in 2021 coinciding with Sometimes I Might Be Extrovert, which is a five star album. Grey Area displays her talents as a rapper with acute social observation.
So this is what I'm here for. I know of, but have never listened to, Little Simz and what an album! Love the overall vibe and how she mixes straight up rap tracks with something a bit more laid back. Also love the restraint of putting out an LP-length album with no filler. Straight on to the rotation list. 4*
Nice