Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, ¨GNX¨ is a bold yet underwhelming addition to his discography. 

Inspired by and named after the 1987 Buick Grand National Experimental, the project leans heavily into Los Angeles culture, combining meaningful lyricism with vibrant West Coast production. While it offers memorable moments and showcases Kendricks’s undeniable lyrical prowess, it doesn’t escape critical critique.

On the positive side, ¨GNX¨ stands out for its transparency, avoiding the dragged-out length and opaque meaning common in other modern albums. Tracks such as ¨Wacced Out Murals¨ and ¨Squabble Up¨ display Kendricks’s ability to moderate aspects of fun with thoughtfulness. His use of collaborators and features from the same region, from AzChike to Roddy Rich, and even SZA, enhance the album’s authenticity. Songs like ¨TV Off¨ with its now iconic ¨Mustard!¨ ad-lib, deliver playful energy, while the reflective ¨Reincarnated¨ touches on heavier themes.

However, the album often feels uneven and boring. Critics note that at some points within the project, it can feel like one big song, with each one stringing together. Additionally, while ¨GNX” feels deeply personal, it sometimes feels like it is trying to live up to Kendricks’s previous projects like ¨To Pimp a Butterfly¨ and ¨DAMN.¨ In a way, that makes it seem like he is almost attempting to recreate them to continue his legacy and please his fans, instead of creating a fully new project. The result is an album that feels rewarding and worth it for over the top and longtime fans but may leave others wanting more that stands out.

Ultimately, ¨GNX¨ is a recognition of Kendrick’s roots and a testament to his creativity. While it may not match the groundbreaking impact of his earlier work, it’s still a quality album, as is all of Kendricks’s material. It’s a great way to explore his identity and artistry, even if it doesn’t hit the high expectations that surround his name. At the end of the day, give the album a listen and share your thoughts. For me, this album received a rating of 5/10.