Genesis Owusu – Struggler

Review Score:

A

September 21 / 2023

I was a little intoxicated when I listened to Genesis Owusu’s STRUGGLER. It was a Tuesday night and frankly I just had nothing going on. But Genesis Owusu made me feel like I did. I was just dancing manically around my apartment from start to finish. I broke an empty glass picture frame, I ate half a pizza that was in my fridge, I DM’ed someone I shouldn’t have and then deleted the message before they could see it.

Genesis Owusu demonstrates an aptitude for a wide range of sounds on STRUGGLER. The opening track sets a tone with a bass heavy, percussive synth beat that’s complemented by Owusu’s energetic delivery. But before the listener gets too comfortable in one sound, Genesis switches things up on “The Roach”. While the percussive rhythms remain, the synth is spacey and light on the chorus. Genesis Owusu sings in a higher register. And it becomes clear that you’re in for a distinctive and expressive album experience. “See Ya There” switches things up AGAIN. Suddenly, we’re greeted with this soulful crooning voice, a bass line as smooth as butter. The tracklist does not let up, with songs like “Tied Up” and “Balthazar”. And “What Comes Will Come” really demonstrates the full range of Owusu.

Genesis Owusu is such a dynamic artist. He’s the kind of unique that I love, with projects that can consistently surprise, impress and delight. This project has already grown on me so much. I wouldn’t be surprised if it ends up as one of my favorites this year.

Review Score:

A

Gubb wrote this review. You can’t get mad at Gubb.