MEGAN THEE STALLION Vinyl & CDs

Review: Megan Thee Stallion's third studio album, 'Megan', marks her debut as an independent artist and reveals her personal truths with unflinching candor. The project opens powerfully with the chart-topping single 'Hiss', setting a bold tone. As the album unfolds, tracks like 'Rattle' and 'Figueroa' feature sharp disses and familiar themes.Megan shines in pieces like 'B.A.S.' and 'Otaku Hot Girl', where she demonstrates her lyrical strength and clever references. The album shifts towards introspection with 'Moody Girl' and 'Cobra', where she grapples with darker emotions, ultimately showcasing her vulnerability. Although some songs feel like straightforward rap without innovation, the overall structure is cohesive, with each track building on the last. While the polished album artwork contrasts with the rawness of the content, Megan is a strong effort. It is a worthwhile listen that captures Megan's multifaceted identity as an artist.

Review: As those following the music press (or what's left of it) will be aware, Megan Thee Stallion has been through a lot in recent years, with the Houston rapper's ascent to global superstardom being accompanied by struggles with grief and betrayal. It's perhaps not surprising, then, that her fourth album, MEGAN, is particularly spiky - both lyrically and musically - with the Texan responding to personal set backs by lashing out at online culture, perceived rivals, former collaborators (yes, Charli XCX does not escape criticism), and "sad girl shit". It not only confirms her place as a top-tier rapper - her lyrics are frequently b breathtakingly brilliant and jaw-dropping in their no-holds-barred intensity - but also one happy to do her thing over decidedly weighty beats, sub-heavy basslines and surprisingly minimalistic arrangements. A triumph, as expected.