Waka Flocka Flame, one of the most hyped local rappers to hit Atlanta’s overcrowded hip-hop scene in years, has released his highly anticipated debut LP, Flockaveli.
This 17-track album commands attention with crunk rap beats and southern style flows and, if it wasn’t obvious already, is named as a tribute to 2 Pac.
The album is full of guest features from his Brick Squad crew, plus catchy street anthems where Flocka raps about the industry and ‘hood life.
Production credits include Gucci Mane (his former manager), Lex Lugar and Atlanta-based producer Sizzle (who’s worked with pop darlings Rihanna and Britney Spears).
“Bustin’ at Em,” the album opener, boasts ‘hood lyrics flowing over crunk beats, and sets a high bar for the rest of the album.
“No Hands,” a club-banging single released in September, features Wale and Roscoe Dash. It’s guaranteed to get people on their feet with its melodic beat and dance-easy rhythm.
“Snakes in the Grass” introduces the first female rapper involved with Brick Squad, Cartier Kitten. Flocka warns listeners to watch their backs: “They say its snakes in the grass/ So I’m gon’ cut this sh**/All these girls run this game/So I can’t trust a b**ch.”
“Go Hard in the Paint,” another track released earlier this year, is produced by Lex Lugar. Its irresistible beat is filled with bass drums and gun shots, reminiscent of Lil Jon and the Eastside Boys’ “Get Crunk”.
“Brick Squad” introduces Flocka’s crew: YG Hootie, French Montana, Joe Moses, Baby Bomb and Slim Duncan. Plus, Young Money artist Gudda Gudda makes and appearance.
“Bustin at Em,” “No Hands” and “Snakes in the Grass” are three of the hottest tracks for their head-bobbing beats. But “Live by the Gun” is the weakest—its Darth Vader-like sounds and drawn-out beat are less than stellar.
Although Waka Flocka Flame has only been rapping for about two years, he’s managed to hone his skill enough to craft a solid first full-length. For all the buzz that surrounds Flocka, Flockaveli proves he has some substance.
