Told
“Told” does a great job of setting the tone for Headie One and Fred again…’s collaborative project, “Gang.” Headie One expresses his love for family, loyalty and the thin line he walks between rap and the streets on the intro track. What sets this song apart is the pacing; throughout the record, Headie One pauses somewhat dramatically, then continues to rap more passionately than before.
GANG
Fred again… laces “Gang” with garage production as Headie One raps about what it means to be in a gang, a theme that floats throughout the project. The song is rich with texture, with glitched vocals from Headie One, as well as drowning background vocals that float to the top as the song progresses.
Judge Me (Interlude)
FKA Twigs and Headie One elegantly sing together on “Judge Me.” The two sing about not being judged on the minimal track. FKA Twigs’s voice gracefully contrasts Headie One’s low echoing vocals. Similarly to “Told,” this track also uses spacing to carry emotion while weaving whispy vocals from FKA Twigs.
Smoke
The electronic-leaning song features production from Jamie XX, adding some flair to the wholly Fred again…-produced project. Far from his roots as a UK drill rapper, the song reveals Headie One’s progression as an artist.
SOLDIERS
Sampha has been tucked away since the release of his debut album “Process” in 2017. Headie One uses this rare moment to reflect on his past altercations with the police and being in and out of jail. This powerful track is one you don’t want to miss.