At Long Last, ASAP Rocky Delivers a Mixed Bag with 'Testing'

ASAP Rocky's latest album, 'Testing', has finally arrived after months of anticipation. The highly-anticipated release marks the rapper's third studio album, and it's clear that Rocky is still pushing the boundaries of his sound. However, the album also showcases some of Rocky's biggest weaknesses.

One of the standout tracks on the album is 'Holy Ghost', a song that features Danger Mouse. The song's overwrought religion metaphor is as subtle as a punch to the head, leaving listeners wondering what exactly Rocky is trying to convey. Thankfully, Rocky fares better with fewer distractions on songs like 'Canal St' and 'JD'. The former is a moody, New York throwback that perfectly captures the city's vibe, while the latter features Rocky delivering his signature flow over a hypnotic beat.

Rocky also shines on tracks like 'M'$', which boasts a sinister bassline that would get any club going. Unfortunately, the hook never quite materializes, leaving listeners wanting more. On the other hand, 'Lord Pretty Flacko Jodye 2' is a hypnotic, siren-driven song that showcases Rocky's ability to create infectious hooks.

However, 'Testing' also highlights some of the album's biggest problems. Like YG and Kendrick Lamar, Rocky often relies too heavily on references, tributes, and features to propel his sound forward. The result is an album that feels more like a greatest hits collection than a cohesive work of art.

Take, for example, 'Jukebox Joints', which teams Rocky with Kanye West over a soul-sampling beat. While the song doesn't quite land, Ye's verses are as expected - witty and sharp as ever. Similarly, 'Max B' is a rappin'-ass rap tribute to the New York legend that features a classic Bob James sample. However, it also includes Joe Fox's cringe-worthy ad-libs, which only serve to detract from the song's overall quality.

Despite these missteps, 'Testing' is still an enjoyable album that showcases Rocky's versatility and skill as a rapper. While it may not be his best work, it's clear that Rocky is still experimenting with new sounds and styles. With a bit more focus on crafting cohesive songs rather than relying on guest verses and samples, Rocky could produce something truly special in the future. For now, 'Testing' is an album that will appeal to fans of Rocky's previous work, but may not win over any new converts.

At long last asap zip