I can certainly empathize with those who wish Earl Sweatshirt would experiment a bit more with his vocal delivery or switch up his style to introduce some variety. It's a valid perspective, especially for listeners craving something fresh or different. However, as someone who holds Some Rap Songs (SRS) close to my heart—easily one of my all-time favorite albums—I find LLL to be an incredibly satisfying extension of that same vibe. It taps into the same introspective, raw, and textured energy that made SRS so special to me. Honestly, it’s hard for me to muster any complaints when I’m being served more of what I consider to be the brilliance of what could very well be my favorite album of all time. It feels like a gift, a continuation of a sound that resonates so deeply with me, and I’m just grateful to be immersed in it again.
The production on LLL is nothing short of sublime—almost otherworldly in its depth and craftsmanship. The beats are layered, moody, and intricate, creating an atmosphere that pulls you in and holds you there. Initially, there were a couple of tracks that I thought might be skips; they didn’t immediately grab me the way others did. But after giving the album a few more spins from start to finish today, those songs have already started to grow on me. They’ve revealed their subtleties and nuances, weaving themselves into the fabric of the album’s cohesive vision. It’s the kind of record that rewards repeated listens, where each play uncovers new layers and emotions.
That said, I don’t think LLL is going to be the album that converts anyone who was lukewarm about Earl’s work or felt fatigued by his signature sound. This project doubles down on his core qualities—his introspective lyricism, his unconventional flows, and that lo-fi, almost hypnotic production style—and amplifies them to their fullest expression. It’s unapologetically Earl, through and through. If you weren’t already on board with his artistic direction or found his approach repetitive, I can completely understand why this might not resonate with you. It’s not trying to win over new fans or cater to a broader audience; it’s a bold, uncompromising statement for those who already connect with his vision. For me, though, this is shaping up to be my album of the year, hands down. It’s a deeply personal and masterfully crafted work that feels like it was made for listeners like me, and I’m already looking forward to diving into it again and again.