Atlanta rap duo
EarthGang carry the torch for their city's rich lineage of rap superpowers, wearing the influence of
OutKast and the rest of the
Dungeon Family collective on their sleeves while updating the sound with contemporary production approaches. Their 2019 album
Mirrorland (their first for
J. Cole's Interscope subsidiary label
Dreamville) was a barrage of dense and stylistically diverse tracks that reflected Atlanta's musical history, where
Ghetto Gods feels more drawn from personal experiences and observations.
EarthGang's rapping could often take a backseat to their grandiose production and arrangements, but
Ghetto Gods balances quality vocal performances and detailed instrumentals. Tracks like "WATERBOYZ" (featuring cameo verses from
JID and
J. Cole) and the joyous, lighthearted "BILLI" bring out more of
EarthGang members Johnny Venus' and WowGr8's personalities and clever lyrical quirks. Along with themes of fun and prosperity,
Ghetto Gods also addresses social and emotional issues, examining intergenerational trauma and systemic racism with the harrowingly beautiful "AMERICAN HORROR STORY" and proclaiming the benefits of weed as a form of self-care during challenging times on "SMOKE SUM."
Future,
Baby Tate,
CeeLo Green,
Nick Cannon, and others all make featured appearances as
Ghetto Gods goes on. ~ TiVo Staff