MIKE’s SHOWBIZ Review: A Contemporary Hip-Hop Gem

By: Malik the Villian

MIKE hasn’t missed and can’t miss. Coming off his collaborative album “Pinball” with Tony Seltzer, MIKE has returned to give us his new studio album “SHOWBIZ!” I’ve been a fan of MIKE since “Burning Desire,” which, to this day, may still be his best album in his extensive discography. In my opinion, MIKE is one of the best rappers currently, able to tell a visual story with his lazy and woozy rap style over soulful and abstract production, featuring beautifully sounding samples. His unique sound is very distinctive and makes him stand out from the rest of the current rap artists.

With his new project, it’s very consistent throughout and has a laid-back vibe, but eventually he switches his flow up a few times to match the production. To start with the highlights, the best tracks of the album are “Watered Down,” “Artist of The Century,” “Lost Scribe,” and “Lucky.” These are standout songs with incredible soul sample loops. MIKE’s catchy hooks, lyricism, and lazy flow mesh so well.

Personally, I found myself going back just for the production on these tracks, because of how flawless they sound with the soulful vocals and drums. Songs like “Da Roc,” “What U Bouta Do?/A Star Is Born,” and “Spun Out” are also very addictive and can be played over and over again. My only complaint is that I wish MIKE would’ve included a verse in “Miss U,” which, while still a good song, really could’ve stood out even more. The only two features are from 454 and Duendita, but they are placed on the right beats and do a fantastic job enhancing the songs.

Overall, this is an incredible album by MIKE with amazing production that’s lazy, catchy, passionate, and consistent. It never feels boring but keeps things chill with MIKE’s signature style. People will talk about the consistency he’s maintained with his quality projects for years to come. Hopefully, he can continue this impressive run he’s been on lately.

Favorite Tracks: Watered Down, Man In The Mirror, Artist of The Century, What U Bouta Do?/A Star Is Born, Da Roc, Lost Scribe, Lucky, Miss U

Album Rating: 👑👑👑👑👑👑👑👑👑 **(9.4/10)**