A$AP ROCKY’s fourth studio album brings a new, unique perspective on his music and style. The album consists of 17 tracks and includes features such as Tyler, the Creator and Doechii. Generally, Don’t Be Dumb explores a vast number of themes through a high-energy mix with an artistic vision.
The single “PUNK ROCKY” teased the album and introduced the idea of a new style for Rocky. This song was a perfect way to institute a new style and punk feel for A$AP ROCKY’s music. Its music video even stars the famous actress Winona Ryder. However, it was definitely not a good representation of the rest of the album. After this song, fans expected a huge shift away from rap for Rocky and a totally new form of music. That wasn’t really the case though as he lost the punk feel he was going for throughout the rest of the album.
Some other favorites on this album include “HELICOPTER”, “STAY HERE 4 LIFE”, and “STOLE YA FLOW”. All three of these songs bring an energetic, hip-hop vibe. They all also feel raw and meaningful at the same time. It’s hard not to head-bop to these songs. “HELICOPTER” is the second song on the album. An unreleased version revealed it was supposed to include a verse by Playboy Carti which was removed in the final. In this song, Rocky wants to remind us how great he is and the influence he holds in the music industry. “STAY HERE 4 LIFE” features Brent Faiyaz and highlights Rocky’s relationship with Rhianna. This explores the theme of the downsides of fame. He wishes for privacy and stability especially as a father. Lastly, “STOLE YA FLOW” is the fourth track on the album. This song targets Drake and how he is known for stealing other’s “flow.” It also brings a high confidence and energy and mood representing how Rocky knows his role in the industry and his domination in the rap game.
There are many more unique, interesting tracks on this album. For example, “THE END”, featuring Will.I.Am and Jessica Pratt has a calmer yet creepier and more ominous vibe than the rest of the album. The guitar and slow singing near the end of the song rather than rap paired with strong hi-hats and drums is a great wrap-up for disc 1. “AIR FORCE (BLACK DEMARCO)” is the 11th track. It erupts with an energetic, engaging beat and further explores fame and its effects. There are a few shifts within the song from the usual rap to bright, slow music with singing which serves as great contrast. “FISH N STEAK (WHAT IT IS)” features Tyler, the Creator and Jozzy. It opens with a nostalgic feel and the song as a whole has an irresistible beat. The whole thing works well together to make an enjoyable song.
However, the album as a whole is actually quite overwhelming for eight years of waiting. There are many exciting, artistic aspects that fans enjoy. But, Don’t Be Dumb is also cluttered and not very cohesive. Though Rocky arguably uses this style and “choppiness” to introduce its many themes such as resisting the social standards set for art, fatherhood, and maturity among others, there are several notable flaws in its organization. The album is great but could be more engaging.
In total, I believe Don’t Be Dumb focuses more on artistic value than what would please listeners and the media which is exactly what A$AP ROCKY was trying to stand for with this album. However, from a listening standpoint it does not live up to the standards set by Rocky’s previous work and also does not meet the expectations after his many years of silence. As Rocky said in “INTERREGGATION (SKIT)”, he isn’t afraid to speak his mind so he won’t put out “crystal clear garbage” but we should definitely expect some more “staticky good” music from him.
