Young Lazarus, a multifaceted artist hailing from New York City, has made significant strides in his career, moving across the Atlantic to pursue his passion for music in England. Known for his work as a member of the band YOTA and his dynamic presence in the Youth Of The Apocalypse, Young Lazarus has returned with his second studio album, *B4 Fragile!*. This album, entirely mixed and mastered by the artist himself, offers listeners a raw and introspective exploration of the complexities within us all.
*B4 Fragile!* is more than just an album; it’s a dialogue. Across its 16 tracks, Young Lazarus dives deep into the nuances of being an up-and-coming musician in today’s world. The album’s overarching theme revolves around the balance of our inner selves—the “good,” the “bad,” and the “ugly”—and how these aspects are often suppressed by societal expectations. Lazarus’s intent is clear: to shed light on the parts of ourselves that are often overlooked or stifled.
The album kicks off with “Paragon,” setting the tone with its hard-hitting beats and introspective lyrics. The track feels like a declaration of intent, with Lazarus establishing himself as an artist unafraid to confront his inner demons. “Static” follows suit, maintaining the album’s intense energy while delving into the chaos of modern life.
“Good Bad Ugly,” serves as the album’s thematic centerpiece. It’s here that Young Lazarus’s vision truly shines. The track’s production, a collaborative effort featuring Softbite, Overcxst!, and Lazarus himself, is a standout with its haunting melodies and gritty undertones. The lyrics are brutally honest, addressing the constant struggle to maintain balance in a world that often pushes us to extremes.
“No Chaser,” featuring a verse from J.I. Hudson, recorded in the States, adds a different flavor to the album. It’s a high-energy track with sharp verses and a pulsating beat, showcasing the seamless collaboration between the two artists despite the distance. The song’s theme of facing life’s challenges head-on without any filters resonates deeply within the album’s narrative.
Tracks like “4real” and “Locked In!” keep the momentum going, blending Lazarus’s sharp lyrical prowess with captivating production. “401k!” and “Risk It!” highlight the financial and emotional risks that come with pursuing a career in music, offering listeners a glimpse into the sacrifices that Lazarus has made along the way.
The latter part of the album continues to impress. “Seriously!” and “Hoax!” bring the album to a close with a strong finish, leaving no stone unturned in Young Lazarus’s quest for self-discovery. Each track on *B4 Fragile!* feels purposeful, contributing to the album’s overall message of embracing all facets of oneself—the good, the bad, and the ugly.
In just 44 minutes and 6 seconds, Young Lazarus delivers a project that is both personal and universally relatable. The fact that much of the album was recorded in London, with Lazarus taking control of the mixing and mastering process, speaks to his dedication and vision as an artist.
*B4 Fragile!* is a testament to Young Lazarus’s growth as a musician and a person. The album is a reflection of the dualities that exist within all of us and serves as a reminder that these aspects should be embraced rather than suppressed. With its powerful lyrics, diverse production, and cohesive narrative, *B4 Fragile!* solidifies Young Lazarus’s place in the hip-hop scene as an artist with something meaningful to say.
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