Written by BVNC | June 13th, 2023 | Released December 16th, 2022
Seeing as this was voted 2022’s ‘Album of the Year’ in our Wisconsin Icon Awards, and after listening to “Off My Chest” by Dubb Saq over a dozen times, it’s clear to hear why everyone loves his debut album. It’s full of emotion, lyricism, versatility, and authenticity, with a quality mix that doesn’t rely on features to sound complete. There’s some dense lyricism and out-of-the-box wordplay throughout the album that some may miss on the first listen-through, increasing its replayability. The album starts with “50/50,” where Dubb Saq is disappointed that people avoid him face-to-face, and he must address them through his songs. He is holding back no punches as he gets everything off his chest. Most rappers keep one rolled and spark up when stressed, and Dubb Saq is no exception. Smoking references are all over this album, but “Molotov” is the flagship stoner track. He reminisces on his history of what he would go through to smoke up. The instrumentals throughout this project have a little bit of everything to keep the listener entertained and give the album more life, from soft piano and Mandolin melodies to brass instruments and utilizing vocals baked into the beat. Some of the more somber tracks include “Undermaintence,” “1 More Call,” and “Me, Myself, and Misery,” where he talks about his adolescent struggles and how the passing of his close friend impacted him. “Root of Jealousy” and “Unbalanced” are tracks where he opens up about certain relationships holding him back and adversely affecting his mental state. While Dubb Saq has a lot to get off his chest, he does have some upbeat, confident tracks like “Oppy,” “Basquiat Posse (Freestyle),” and “6ix5ive.” In these, he pulled out some of his thought-provoking lyrics. The final song, “Pipe Dreams,” shares similar characteristics but includes the only two features on the project from Dyess and Rome414. This track is full of confidence, top-tier lyrics and rhymes, and energy that will snap you out of your feelings. I enjoyed this album and recommended everyone to listen to “Off My Chest” on all platforms—message Dubb Saq on social media to tell him what you think of his album.
Album is incredible!!!