Album Review: Patrick Paige II – If I Fail Are We Still Cool?

High energy and inspiring messages

Patrick Paige II released the album, If I Fail Are We Still Cool? on May 21. This is the second solo album that he made without The Internet, his world-renowned band. The album contains 17 tracks that are a mix of rapping and soulful singing. 

“Whisper (Want My Luv),” a single off the album, has already gained popularity. He’s joined by Durand Brenarr, Allen Love and Steve Lacy. It begins with a strong bassline and smooth vocals that create an energy-filled track. It is easy to listen to and emanates positivity. “40,000 Feet ” takes on a reflective perspective and has peaceful production. He reflects on his life and how far he has come. It has inspiring lyrics with the message of working hard to achieve goals and dreams while not showing off all that was earned along the way. It is a relaxing listen to but also has grounding advice in the lyrics. 

“Ain’t Talkin Bout Much” is the eighth song on the album, and Syd joins him. The lyrics say that they “ain’t talkin bout much,” but are achieving their dreams in life and making money. Like many of the other tracks on the album, Patrick Paige II shows off his producing abilities on this song; it has clever lyrics with intriguing production. While being less than two minutes, it engages the listener and spreads a positive message with high energy like many of the other tracks on the album. 

Carrying the same energy, “Accountable” has a similar feeling to “Ain’t Talkin Bout Much.” He raps about his achievements and the hard work that he puts into his work. The lyrics are inspiring as they are about holding oneself accountable to their work and goals, which allows them to live a lavish life. Like many of the other songs on the album, he lets the listener know all he has been through and how hard he worked to achieve his goals.

The 11th track on the album, “So They Say,” has a more relaxed sound. It begins with a peaceful electric guitar, and he alternates between singing and rapping. He sings about his life, his identity and how he is perceived. In the chorus, he sings about being told that “everything happens for a reason,” but he does not know what he believes. This track is soulful, and the lyrics are powerful. It can be a song for both easy listening and reflecting on life. 

“Big Plays” is another popular track on the album on which Westside Mcfly joins him. This is an uplifting and confidence-inducing song. With catchy lyrics and upbeat production, the energy of the song is infectious. With a similar sound to “Big Plays,” “Curfew” is another energizing song on the album. He raps and sings relatable, catchy lines, in which he talks about his life and the lessons that he has learned. He sings about patience, regrets and the future. The lyrics are both profound and optimistic, which creates an uplifting message. 

While some of the songs are upbeat and energizing, there are some more laidback tracks on the album. On “Who Am I,” he takes on a more relaxed sound. The lyrics are powerful as he reflects on his own life and makes commentary on the world around him. While the song is gentle and peaceful, the lyrics are full of truth and emotion. 

If I Fail Are We Still Cool? is a reflective and energizing album containing powerful lyrics and lively production. 

Stephanie Pratt: I am a student at Hamilton College majoring in economics and minoring in Spanish and music. Music and writing are two of my passions. I listen to every genre, but my favorite is indie-pop. I have studied and learned to play many different genres of guitar, from classical and rock to pop and indie. I also play piano and have begun to write music. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new and upcoming artists, photography, and writing music. I have attended Berklee College of Music, where I learned more about the music industry, guitar theory, music production, and songwriting. I also love to attend live music events and am often at The House of Blues in Boston checking out my favorite bands.
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