It is crazy to think that Black Milk is a veteran at this point, as he has always had a young spirit since he’s debut album ‘Popular Demand’ in 2007. Before that I first heard him on 2002’s ‘Dirty District’ compilation presented by Slum Village. In 2023 the rapper/producer provided ‘Everybody’s Good?’ which if one was just hearing Black milk for the first time would think he sounds like a new upcoming act. In the past my biggest issue with Black Milk was his obvious influence by Jay Dee a.k.a. J-Dilla on production and even rhyme style. This latest album truly finds Black Milk in his own bag and providing a refresher course on how HOP music can sound innovative and take risk with music. As a concept the album title asks is “everybody good” while tracks like ‘Yeah Really’ examine how often people might seem like everything is good but going through struggles. The genius of this record is how in totality it is a dark album but the music masks that somber tone, giving it a reason to initially be intrigued by the sounds but on repeated listens understanding through the lyrics why the album ask the question. Black Milk really establishes his production strength on ‘Everybody Good’ and keeps the features smart and to a minimum. You will only find Mick Jenkins, Quelle Chris and one of the most talked about lyrics from Phonte on this album on ‘No Wish. As well as vocal harmonizing from Rapheal Saadiq and Brandom Myster. This was my personal favorite album of 2023 and really had me asking what if Black Milk did an album for “…insert whoever’s name here.” ‘Everybody Good?’ is a new beginning for Black Milk in my opinion, that will possibly put him in higher regard for bigger acts in the future as well as recognition. What did you think of the album?
Singles include:
‘Yeah Really’
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