Sunday SOS Record Reviews
Young Thug
Jeffery (Atlantic)
By Kahron Spearman, Fri., Nov. 4, 2016
Originally No, My Name Is Jeffery – as initially announced by Atlantic Records head Lyor Cohen – the charismatic mumble rap of Young Thug's third retail mixtape (and rebrand) explores the evolution of an enigma. First off, actual songs and their titles – like the album moniker – have changed or disappeared. "Kanye West" was once "Pop Man." Midtempo banger "Floyd Mayweather" didn't feature Travis Scott's vox. What remains is a tight, 42-minute affair, with unique undertones of hood romance openly referring to his fiancée Jerrika, especially "RiRi" and Wyclef Jean-assisted standout "Kanye West." Young Thug's typical trapped-out accoutrement – the heavy gunplay and misogyny – have begun an evaporation process. In its place, Jeffery redefines what trap could be going forward. (Sun., 7:55pm, Dragon's Lair stage)