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- April 26, 2023
Larry June & The Alchemists’ Joint Album Takes Us On “The Great Escape”
Catch a vibe while listening to The Great Escape. Larry June and The Alchemist’s album takes listeners on a journey filled with life lessons and advice, accompanied by a subtle yet unmistakable sense of opulence. The album’s defining quality can be summed up in one word: a vibe. The collaborative effort features an impressive lineup of diverse artists, including Big Sean, Joey Bada$$, and Ty Dolla $ign, each bringing their unique contributions to the project. From start to finish, the album creates a captivating atmosphere that resonates with listeners, combining Larry June’s wisdom and The Alchemist’s production prowess to deliver a rich and immersive musical experience.
The beginning track “Turkish Cotton” feeds listeners into a rainstorm as if they’re entering a totally new experience. The rain sound slowly transitions into the sound of a car engine starting, then transgressively turns into a trumpet-like sound that soothes the ears to a soft storm. June raps to the beat and does a subtle flex of the lifestyle he has, and encourages others to get a bag like him so they too can live so comfortably. The overall vibe is relaxed and chill, some notes tickle the eardrums like an itch.
“89 Earthquake” maintains the laid-back vibe of the album, with a sample from Saki Kubota’s 80s track, “A Mask of Kindness.” The subtle addition of Kubota’s vocals adds a nostalgic touch, making it an ideal song for a late-night drive. As the song progresses, the sound of an ocean shoreline emerges, seamlessly transitioning into the next track of the album. The combination of the sample, the soothing atmosphere, and the oceanic soundscape create a captivating auditory experience, further enhancing the album’s overall aesthetic and mood.
In “Solid Plan,” June sings about the power of having a well-thought-out plan, stating that anything is possible with one. The track keeps the 80s-inspired vibe going, evoking a sense of nostalgia. The addition of Action Bronson brings his affluent style of rapping and lyricism to the song, adding to its overall appeal. June’s message of the importance of a solid plan is paired with the retro feel of the music and Action Bronson’s impressive verses and lyrics.
Palisades, CA is a secluded affluent neighborhood in Los Angeles and is also the name of the fourth track on the album. The name is a direct reference to the glamorous and rich lifestyle that they live now but they still credit their success to betting on themselves. The song samples “Omens Of Love,” by Luis Alberto Spinetta. Rapper Big Sean is joined towards the end of this song seamlessly gliding on the beat.
“Summer Reign” is a standout track on the album, featuring Ty Dolla $ign’s mesmerizing vocals. The song exudes a sense of cruising on a boat in the vast ocean, with its smooth groove and captivating melodies. Ty Dolla $ign’s performance is exceptional, adding depth and emotion to the track. As the song plays, it creates an immersive experience for the listeners, transporting them to a dreamy, sun-soaked world.
In “Orange Village” June shares more about his introspective musings, sharing his insights and reflections on life, love, and the pursuit of success. His lyrics are raw and honest, painting a vivid picture of his experiences in the “Orange Village” – a metaphor for his hometown of San Francisco. The Alchemist continues to keep up with June’s fitting style and flow which reflects the power that the duo brings together.
Another great use of sampling is in the song “Porsches in Spanish.” Track 7 of the album is the official “Mind on the Money” song. The song incorporates samples in the production from Crosstown Expresses, “Let Me Try.” Larry raps about how he’s reached his success because of music and the many cars that he drives.
And we gettin’ money still, but they don’t really see the grind
~Larry June
“Art Talk” slows down the flow a bit. Boldy James, known for his distinctive low and rhythmic rap style, delivers captivating verses that draw listeners in with their poetic flow. The Alchemist’s intricate production is characterized by rich instrumentation and hypnotic beats. It makes for an amazing slow head-bob song that everyone knows and loves. “Ocean Sounds” starts with the sound of a crashing symbol that mixes just like the waves coming onto shore. June passionately raps about finding his true love in the sea of people. He explains that love isn’t just with another it’s finding what is within you.
Love is when you happy with yourself
~Larry June
“Left No Evidence” is a simple wordplay on the featured artist, Evidence, who starts off his verse with a melodic lyricism that makes your ears tune in to listen. June finishes the song over the piano-centered background cords. The same ocean sound ends the song with the sound of a spark. Wiz Kalifa joins June on “What Happened To The World?” Both styles complement the product with a similar style that progresses throughout the song. A call-and-response part sort of answers the question of what grind it takes for the two to live the lifestyle they do.
“Éxito” talks about the humble beginnings of both rappers June and Jay Worthy, who passionately raps about his days as a hustler and what it takes to grow up somewhere different than where he is now. The track includes the sounds of a money counter another element of the album that allows listeners to visualize the entire record. “60 Days” expands upon the rich lifestyle which continues to be mentioned often in the album.
“Barragn Lighting” parades yet another creative use of sampling within the duo tracks. Curren$y and Joey Bada$$ jump on the track along with June’s vocalizing rap. All three rap with similar styles but clear differences in word choice and lyricism. The album wraps up with “Margie’s Candy House,” a fitting outro for the entire album that summarizes the journey that it took listeners through. He reminisces on his past and childhood offering encouraging words in the song.
The synergy between Larry June and The Alchemist is evident throughout the album, as they seamlessly merge their talents to create a unique and captivating musical experience. Their chemistry is palpable, with Larry June’s smooth flow riding effortlessly over The Alchemist’s soulful and hypnotic production. The Great Escape’s overall sound is a perfect fusion of Larry June’s rich storytelling and The Alchemist’s impeccable production skills.
Stream The Great Escape and look find tickets for Larry’s Market Run Tour in May. View the entire album’s official visualizer playlist below.
