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Will Schube is your least favorite rapper.
For those unfamiliar with Compton rapper AD, he explains himself almost immediately on “From the Block.” From its opening moments AD’s mission is clear: “I ain’t a rapper I’m a real one from the block.” He says it twice just so there’s not any confusion. Since the big name co-sign is a necessary evil for any rapper whose talent far outweighs their reach, Maxo Kream comes along to give “From the Block” a star presence. While Maxo’s verse is unsurprisingly strong, “From the Block” is AD’s track to put on his shoulders and take to the streets.
AD and Maxo take turns spitting examples of hood hustle and cold realities, a seminar in smooth flows and exacting language. “From the Block” comes from AD’s forthcoming, Regional Departure, and the track takes cues from the album title. AD is less a regionalist than some of his LA peers, spitting street tales that don’t discriminate based on your area code. AD delivers a smooth hook that blends exasperation and confidence with ease, outlasting the Sisyphean nature of the struggle, persevering to collect the reward of rap’s winnings.
The whining horns of the synth melody add to the desperation of poverty’s chokehold, as Maxo raps, “Whatchu know about life without parole?/ Whatchu know about sharing school clothes?” Stories of crime aren’t glamorized nor are they shied away from. “When I stole my first car I was nervoussss,” raps Maxo, showcasing his stellar Southern drawl. With AD taking the wheel and Maxo riding shotgun, never has a showcase of skill so perfectly contrasted the subject of a song. AD is a rapper indeed.
