Childish Gambino • because the internet • Glassnote Records • Producer: Various • Score: 9 out of 10
Widely recognized for his role on Community and his improv at the UCB, Donald Glover is quickly turning hip-hop heads under the moniker Childish Gambino. Playing follow-up to Camp, Gambino’s 2011 debut, this record elevates the artist to a new level of street cred with fresh beats, well-thought samples and a lyrical flow that teeters between spoken word/smooth talk and pent up anger. Featuring Chance the Rapper, Jhene Aiko and Azealia Banks (among others), this is more than just hip-hop for the hipsters; this is an up-and-coming rapper offering an inside perspective on a mind dealing with the rigors of success. Standouts include “sweatpants” and “3005.” – Andy Mesecher
