Chief Keef Fails To Hit The Mark On "Dedication"

Production is a key aspect for any album. If production isn't up to par, then the rest of the record likely isn't, either. That's the case for Chief Keef's new album, which is all over the place. Chief Keef fails to hit the mark on Dedication, falling short in multiple important places.

The most striking issue in Dedication is the mixing. Production is hit or miss, some tracks sounding original and others sounding like any other hip-hop track, but it's really the mixing that kills a lot of tracks. 'Ticket' opens the record, and the first thing that strikes you is just how unapologetically loud the clap/snare is. It stands out like a sore thumb, distracting you from anything else the song has to offer (though all you're missing is lazy delivery atop a grandiose instrumental). Vocal production on 'Text' knocks it down a peg, as the cinematically dark intro builds you up just to break you back down as soon as those vocals that lack any reverb and are far too loud enter the mix.

The lyrical content on the record isn't exactly great, either. 'Keke Palmer' raises all kinds of questions; why Keke Palmer? What did she do? Chief Keef took the liberty of describing what 'Bad' was with it's title; it's lyrics are so off the mark, it's funny to hear. 'Come On Now' can't be saved by Lil Yachty, as he jumps on a sinking boat as awful delivery and more subpar lyrics hurt the album more. 

Chief Keef fails to hit the mark on Dedication, not bringing the album up to the standard where it should be as far as production and content goes. It's sad to think that even if one or the other was half as good as he makes them appear on Dedication, the other aspect would still drag the album down.

Favorite Track: Text

Least Favorite Tracks: Come On Now, Bad

Rating: 58 / 100

Stream or buy Dedication on Apple Music: