When you hear the name Post Malone, the first thing that probably comes to your mind is his hit "White Iverson." The 21-year-old rapper burst onto the scene with his single "White Iverson," which dominated the airwaves throughout the year. Once the calendar flipped to 2016, pressure mounted for Malone to deliver more hits and an album. He has made some big statements about what this meant to him and how great it would be. Today, his debut album Stoney as arrived.
Upon first listen, one of the first things you notice that the LP is quite lengthy at 18 songs and 78 minutes in total. There were numerous delays with this album, which increased the pressure for it to be great as he stepped further and further out of the "White Iverson" limelight. However, it also gave him time to craft something that seems to fit more with that he wants to be as an artist, showcasing multiple genres and not just hazy, radio-friendly, pop rap.
Stoney seems to represent what we know about Post Malone as a 21-year-old and also gives a peak into what he wants to be. There is a lot about women, money and fame. This is somewhat expected for someone who just burst onto the scene, has toured with Justin Bieber and become an internet sensation. He doesn't often go that in depth lyrically, there are moments of hurt like on "Leave," and attempts to show those who doubted him that he has made it.
The production on Stoney sets the table for all of album. He fuses his voice to the snare rolls and hazy production that is put together by an all-star cast of names like Metro Boomin, DJ Mustard and more. It is easy-going, but also radio friendly. However there are the moments, notably towards the end of the album, when he shows his love for the guitar as the primary instrument. This is a wrinkle you normally don't hear on a pop-rap album.
With features by the likes of Justin Bieber, Quavo, 2 Chainz and Kehlani, Post Malone shows just how much of a force he has become in this business in such a short period of time.
On Stoney, Post Malone delivers on the sound he established with "White Iverson," but he also shows that there is also a more organic future. It is too long, but there is some substance in the middle.
Pick up a copy on iTunes.