Marlon Craft drops off sophomore album “How We Intended”
New York’s Marlon Craft has made his return with the release of his second studio album How We Intended.
If you haven’t heard of him, allow me to introduce you. Marlon Craft is a 27-year-old rapper/songwriter from the neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen in Manhattan, NY. His latest album is the successor of his 2019 debut Funhouse Mirror, elevating him through the ranks of the rap game.
Craft notably employs very politically charged lyrics in his tracks – which is particularly evident in his 2020 single “Time Will Tell,” where he discusses his support for Black lives as well as the realities of their experiences in white America.
His east coast roots are apparent in his music, where he employs advanced lyrical ability, impressively multi-syllabic rhyme schemes and complex wordplay. For example, in the track “Tell Me Today” he rhymes “soliloquies deepen” with “finna be peakin’” with “critically speaking,” which is a five syllable rhyme.
His sound is similar to that of Joey Bada$$, J. Cole, Flatbush Zombies and Ab-Soul; Joey Bada$$ and Flatbush Zombies being fellow New York natives as well.
On the album, Craft discusses ideas of being true to himself, social justice, anxiety and depression. He even touches on life in the pandemic.
On “Lookin’ Up,” he states “Pandemic turn me fully alcoholic, But I'm also growin' like crazy so fuck it, I can't and I don't have to call it.” He even pays a small tribute to Mac Miller on “Off Beat,” saying “On those days when I really wish Mac was still here, I really wish facts was still clear…”
The day before its release, Craft took to Instagram to deliver a sincere message about achieving his goals. He also offered his appreciation and gratitude for everyone who supported him and helped him get to where he is at.
The record in its entirety is a very impressive listen. His heavily lyrical bars and mellow flows glide over old school instrumentals courtesy of producers Xm△ne, Arbus beats, 6ix, Sly5thAve, Dan Edinberg, and others.
As a fan of more lyrical rap myself, I found the album to be a truly solid body of work. The project is consistent yet distinctive enough to maintain your interest. Craft does an excellent job representing one of the most established rap scenes in the country.
Rating: 7/10
Favorite tracks: “At The Door,” “Hoodie Weather,” “Off Beat”
Stream How We Intended below.