In the ever-evolving landscape of modern rap, few artists are taking bold steps into new territories quite like Oklahoma native 2Slimy. His debut album, High Anxiety, delivers a relentless barrage of sound that may not only shock listeners but also challenge their understanding of what rap can be.
Upon first encounter, 2Slimy’s aesthetic feels familiar yet strikingly different. The vibrant visuals from his Instagram reels showcase a rapper flexing against the backdrop of an unassuming convenience store, all while booming trap beats blare at a deafening volume. 2Slimy’s unique brand of ear-splitting introspection primarily operates within a subgenre known as rage rap, which has been gaining traction over the last five years.
Rage rap, made popular by acts like Playboy Carti, emphasizes aggressive soundscapes marked by nihilistic vibes and heavy distortion. 2Slimy cranks this up to an entirely new level, launching tracks that, at times, feel more akin to a power electronics performance than anything resembling traditional rap. This risk-taking approach is refreshingly unique in a musical territory often dominated by formulaic beats and blunt lyrics.
The noise levels of High Anxiety are nothing short of comical, sometimes demanding that listeners adjust their understanding of auditory experience. The album features 13 tracks stretched across a brief 23 minutes, a format that works beneficially to keep listeners engaged without overstaying its welcome. Tracks like the opener “Bring Them Out” inject the listener’s senses with chaos yet possess a surprising amount of structural detail amid the madness.
But it’s not merely the synthesis of sound that captivates but also 2Slimy’s vocal prowess. His voice, drenched in neon autotune and enhanced with dizzying vocal delays, cuts through the layers of distortion, navigating a sonic landscape that oscillates between controlled chaos and unrestrained noise. Such skill illustrates a level of artistry that can often get lost within the overwhelming soundscape.
In tracks like “Rolling Off Molly,” an infectious mix of catchy hook melodies and stuttering percussion captures an invigorating energy reminiscent of live performances from the past. Yet, even amidst these high-energy moments, some shortcomings reveal themselves. Tracks like “Shoot at You” and “Red Moon” run the risk of blending into the chaotic backdrop without leaving a lasting impression.
While the mix is audacious and vigorous, there are times when songs feel underwhelming, often lacking the dynamic beats that lift the album’s strongest moments. Yet, this perceived imperfection adds to the charm of High Anxiety, allowing it to serve as both a thrilling experience and a potential gateway for new fans of the genre.
This album is not for everyone. The raw intensity and chaotic audio elements will polarize listeners, sparking debates on whether 2Slimy’s unique approach to rap is revolutionary or simply noise. But therein lies its value—pushing boundaries and redefining expectations—can itself be an art form.
As for an evaluation, considering the thrilling highs, nuanced performances, yet evident flaws, this album garners a respectable score of 45/60. For those bold enough to embrace the chaotic cacophony of 2Slimy, they may just find a refreshing and exhilarating future in the world of rage rap.