We’re getting more Heems exposure than anyone could have expected. It’s not too surprising that it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
He has some fascinating pieces in this album. Trying NY Drill in “RAKHI” is great. The old school NY rap in “DAME” is fun. That could be a Biggie beat. “MANTO” doesn’t have the best flow but Vijay Iyer is top notch in it and the jazz and rap intermingling is excellent.
However, the interludes are terrible. The rolodex stunting is gauche. “RIGHTEOUS” cannot end fast enough. His Juhi Chawla bit is terrible. Firstly, it’s over-explained for a white audience. Secondly, it’s absolutely baby’s first Bollywood movie. Put it together and it’s painfully shallow.
When an album’s music is largely forgettable, the bits that stand out need to sparkle. There are some songs well worth the listen but there’s too much that grates as well.
Top Five Records 