Spencer Wu
Senior Copy Editor
In this summer’s climate of highly anticipated album drops from the likes of Travis Scott, Mac Miller, and many others, one gem sticks out in particular. With his patented funky fresh delivery, Portland native Aminé delivers his second studio work: a surprise mixtape titled “ONEPOINTFIVE.”
Whether it be through fashion or music, Aminé has always stood out as a quirky and expressive character. This thirteen track follow-up to his debut album, “Good For You,” definitely brings out his character. “ONEPOINTFIVE” offers a wider appeal to the new-age trap sound with its incorporation of blaring beats, but still maintains the bouncy energy that people know him for. Gone are the days that Aminé is referred to as the “Caroline” rapper; he has carved a niche for himself with honesty and inventiveness.
There are constant switches in flow throughout the album, with the singer/songwriter flipping from rapping to harmonizing. For instance, “REEL IT IN” displays Aminé’s vocal skill set by transitioning from chorus to verse seamlessly. This song is also unique because the backdrop of the song features a sample from a harp and a recorder meshing with heavy bass kicks.
Another notable track is “SHINE.” Aminé’s candor and vulnerability shine through his work, and that is apparent here. A silly yet relatable bar: “I fuck up like every day. I fuck up in every way. I fuck up like when I pull up on Sunday at Chick-fil-A.” However foolish this sounds, this song is a love ballad about missing a loved one, with the hook going: “I don’t wanna feel like I need you. You’re a catch but I’m not a receiver. I’m nervous what this might turn into. Know my skin glows whenever I see you,” creatively putting his special twist on conventional topics such as a lost love.
Another unique song is “HICCUP,” featuring Gunna. It boasts a zoney Playboi Carti-esque beat that is accompanied by Aminé’s Kid Cudi-like humming, offering a new side of the rapper. The diversity in his range is apparent as Aminé adopts the trendier, morose trap sound with this record.
Fans who have been following him since before “Good For You” know that he is a breath of fresh air in the rap game. He has personalized flow, content, and even ad-libs. This body of work extinguishes any discussion of him being a one hit wonder and affirms his status a talented, sound musician. This album deserves a solid “ONEPOINTFIVE” out of 2.