Album Review: Kendrick Lamar’s GNX
Kendrick Lamar really said, “Let me shake the whole rap game real quick,” and surprise-dropped GNX, his latest album that feels like a victory lap but also a warning shot. It’s only 12 tracks, but don’t let the shorter tracklist fool you—this album is stacked with heat, introspection, and just the right amount of flexing.
The Vibes
From the first track, “Wacced Out Murals,” Kendrick wastes no time addressing his Super Bowl halftime show drama (“Got the Super Bowl and Nas the only one congratulate me”) and showing us why he’s still the rap GOAT. The energy is unmatched—he’s got the confidence of someone who just dropped a diss track, won, and casually moved on.
SZA pulls up twice on the album (“Luther” and “Gloria”), and honestly, her features are chef’s kiss. “Gloria” especially hits hard—it's one of those songs where you feel Kendrick pouring his soul out while still somehow making it a banger. Jack Antonoff, aka Taylor Swift’s producer bestie, helps give some tracks this cinematic, bigger-than-life vibe. And Kamasi Washington’s sax on a couple tracks? PURE ART.
What Hits Different
Kendrick knows how to flex and reflect in the same breath. Songs like “Hey Now” and “Squabble Up” are absolute bops, ready to blow up in clubs, but there’s always that Kendrick touch—introspective bars that make you think twice. And then there’s “Heart Pt. 6,” which isn’t just a song, it’s a moment. Drake tried it with his own “Heart Pt. 6” earlier this year, but Kendrick took the title back like, “Nah, this is mine.”
Production-wise, GNX is wild in the best way. It’s like Kendrick smashed together vintage ‘80s samples with futuristic West Coast beats and somehow made it work. You’ve got Mustard, Sounwave, and even Jack Antonoff cooking up bangers, and the result is an album that feels both timeless and experimental.
The Only Catch
If you’re expecting a tightly-knit concept album like DAMN. or To Pimp a Butterfly, this ain’t that. GNX feels more like a playlist of vibes—every track has something to say, but they don’t necessarily tie together into one big story. That’s not a bad thing, though, because the individual songs hit so hard it doesn’t even matter.
Final Thoughts
Kendrick is in his villain era but in the best way. He’s calling shots, claiming titles, and proving once again that nobody in the game does it like him. GNX is proof that Kendrick’s pen is still unmatched, his flows are untouchable, and his ability to blend storytelling with bangers is next-level.
If this is just a warm-up for what’s coming next, I’m scared (and excited). But even if GNX stands alone, it’s another W for Kendrick—and for us. Don’t walk, RUN to stream this one.
