The Alchemist continues to dominate 2024 with his third release of the year, The Genuine Articulate. Known for his unique sound, blending soulful loops, dark melodies, and iconic dialogue samples, Alc expands his repertoire, once again stepping behind the mic to deliver a project that showcases his versatility as both a producer and rapper. While the project includes notable features from ScHoolboy Q, Larry June, Action Bronson, Conway The Machine, and Havoc from Mobb Deep, the spotlight remains firmly on Alc’s evolving artistry.
A Producer Turned Rapper – Pushing Boundaries
Over the past year, fans have heard The Alchemist take a more active role as an emcee, and The Genuine Articulate reflects his growing confidence behind the mic. For longtime fans, this shift may have come as a surprise, but Alc’s steady evolution as a rapper adds a fresh dimension to his projects. His smooth production abilities remain the backbone of the album, but hearing him flow alongside seasoned lyricists makes The Genuine Articulate all the more intriguing.
On tracks like “Something Light”, Alc pushes himself with a faster flow over eerie, synth-driven production. While he still sounds most comfortable in his usual laid-back cadence, it’s refreshing to hear him experiment and hold his own against some of the best rappers in the game. His introspective lines and punchy ad-libs create an atmosphere that draws listeners in, while his production continues to set the stage for lyrical storytelling.
Features That Elevate the Project
What makes The Genuine Articulate stand out is Alc’s ability to bring out the best in his collaborators. Whether it’s the grimy intensity of Conway The Machine on “Diego Maradona” or the breezy confidence of Larry June on “Details”, the featured artists complement Alc’s production perfectly. The Alchemist builds beats that fit like a tailored suit, giving each artist the space to shine without overshadowing his own contributions as an emcee.
One of the project’s standout tracks, “Ferraris in the Rain”, sees ScHoolboy Q contributing a brief yet impactful feature. Alc’s production here is as moody and cinematic as ever, using soulful vocal loops to create a reflective atmosphere. While Q’s verse may leave some listeners wanting more, the track is still a highlight, thanks to its lush instrumentation and effortless pacing.
“Scientology”, featuring Mobb Deep legend Havoc, is another album highlight. The track’s relentless beat and Alc’s hypnotic flow remind listeners of the chemistry the duo has cultivated over decades of collaboration. Havoc’s verse closes with a powerful line about their history, adding an emotional depth to the track. The way Alc mirrors the rhythmic pulse of the percussion in his flow is a nod to his ability to play both producer and rapper with ease.
A Cinematic Experience
Listening to The Genuine Articulate is like watching a film unfold scene by scene. Alc’s use of atmospheric soundscapes and dialogue samples from movies and interviews gives each track a narrative quality. Take “Diego Maradona”, for example: the dark, murky production evokes imagery of a fog-covered city at night, while Alc’s measured flow sets a perfect pace before Conway takes over with his gritty delivery.
The project’s closer, “Seasons Change”, is perhaps its most introspective moment. Over a soothing guitar melody, Alc reflects on personal experiences, particularly moments with his son, creating an emotional conclusion that brings the album full circle. It’s a touching reminder of the human side of a producer who’s often seen as an enigmatic figure in hip-hop.
Final Thoughts: The Alchemist’s Dual Talents on Display
The Genuine Articulate is a testament to The Alchemist’s unmatched ability to craft immersive soundscapes while evolving as a rapper. While some fans may still prefer Alc to stay behind the boards, it’s clear that his decision to step into the booth adds a new dimension to his music. His verses may not be the most technically intricate, but they’re raw, vivid, and, above all, real.
From the eerie, calculated flow on “Something Light” to the brooding, cinematic tone of “Diego Maradona”, Alc’s versatility shines through. His production remains as stellar as ever, while his rap game, though still developing, is compelling enough to keep listeners hooked. As the year progresses, Alc continues to solidify his status as one of the most dynamic artists in hip-hop today.
Standout Tracks:
- “Everybody’s Favorite Uncle”
- “Scientology” (ft. Havoc)
- “Seasons Change”
