Rae Sremmurd’S new album “Sremm 4 Life” features Future & Young Thug.
Rae Sremmurd’s fourth album, Sremm 4 Life, sees the party-hard duo confront the realities of growing up while still maintaining their signature irreverence and energy. With both Swae Lee and Slim Jxmmi now fathers, the album reflects a newfound sense of responsibility and awareness of consequences. Yet, despite this shift, the duo hasn’t lost their touch, continuing to deliver bacchanalian bangers alongside more introspective tracks.
The album was split into three sections: Swae Lee’s solo album, Slim Jxmmi’s solo album, and a joint album featuring the duo. Each section had its standout tracks, but we’re going to focus on the top five tracks from the joint album.
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Tracks like “Origami (Hotties)” and “Something I’m Not” shows a more sombre side of Rae Sremmurd as they grapple with the weight of age and experience. The killing of their stepdad in 2021, for which their younger brother was charged and sentenced to prison, also looms large in the songwriting, adding an extra layer of depth and complexity to the album.
“Royal Flush” featuring Young Thug takes the number two spot. The song’s horn-driven trap beat provides the perfect backdrop for Swae Lee, Slim Jxmmi, and Young Thug to flex on their haters. The trio describes how they are like drugs to women and why it’s a bad idea to leave them on read.
The duo still knows how to have a good time, as seen on tracks like “Sexy” and “Royal Flush.” The difference now is that they’ve learned to party responsibly, diluting substances and trading in cute shoes for comfortable ones. The result is a more mature version of Rae Sremmurd, one that is still capable of turning up without coming down.
“Mississippi Slide,” a track that showcases Rae Sremmurd’s effortless flow over an uptempo trap beat. The song’s braggadocious lyrics boast of their big bankrolls and loyal women. Despite having no interest in visiting Mississippi, the listener will undoubtedly bump this track repeatedly.
Coming in at number four is “Something I’m Not.” This emotional track features introspective and vulnerable verses from the typically cocky Slim Jxmmi and infectious melodies from Swae Lee. The song’s beat is soulful and will leave a lasting impact on the listener.
One standout track is “ADHD Anthem (2 Many Emotions),” which sees the duo dive headfirst into emo rap territory. With wailing vocals and squiggly video game synths, the track is a departure from their usual sound but shows that they are willing to experiment and take risks. “Activate” featuring Future is a bouncy track lowkey P and showcases each rapper’s strengths. Future’s urgent and heart-breaking rap verse shines the brightest, but Swae Lee’s playful hook and verse and Slim Jxmmi’s pumped-up verse make this song a must-listen.
On the squeaky twerk jam “Bend Ya Knees,” Swae Lee drops cool playboy flexes while Jxmmi unleashes Auto-Tuned punchlines. “I’m a bald-head nigga, just like Mr. Clean/And they know it’s me, hit the dro and shoulder lean,” Jxmmi raps, delivering one of his many standout lines. He needs his brother’s smooth melodies as much as Swae Lee needs his lively rapping, but the most interesting moments happen when Jxmmi takes the lead, a potential first teased on his solo debut “Jxmtro.”
Finally, the number one track on the joint album is “Not So Bad (Leans Gone Cold).” The song’s dramatic drill beat and Rae Sremmurd’s own version of the famous “Stan” chorus featuring the word “lean” create a unique and memorable experience. The verses may be forgettable, but the chorus is the star of the show.
Compared to their sprawling triple-LP “SR3MM,” which skillfully showcased the unique styles and production tastes of the brothers while avoiding any dull moments, their latest album can feel formulaic and less adventurous at times. Most of the tracks feature the duo (or a featured guest) playing off a Swae Lee chorus, which serves as the anchor.
Sremm 4 Life is a fantastic album that showcases Rae Sremmurd’s versatility and artistry. Each track has its strengths, and listeners are sure to find a favorite among the top five tracks on the joint album.
Overall, Sremm 4 Life is a solid addition to Rae Sremmurd’s discography, showcasing a duo that is growing up but still knows how to have a good time. They may have reached a humbling stage of partying, but they’re not ready to give up their irreverence or glee just yet.
