Blending genres brilliantly.

Genesis Owusu is an artist that emerged onto the scene with a genre-blurring approach, with moments of funk, punk and alternative pop blending into his albums. Overall, his style has been rap-centric, but the additional subgenres in the music have made for some incredible albums. Smiling with No Teeth from 2021 was a punchy debut and 2023’s STRUGGLER expanded on the creative and aggressive approach. However, Owusu has really found his stride on REDSTAR WU & THE WORLDWIDE SCOURGE. The project is the perfect blend of calm indie funk, angry post-punk and aggressive political rap.

The writing on the album leans into an abrasive approach to lyricism, discussing the political state of the world. The project’s unapologetic lyricism allows Owusu to shine as a radical figure in introspective hip-hop. The album opens with “PIRATE RADIO” and comes out full force with anger. Owusu boldly raps, “Elon’s a fucking weirdo/Who gave these incels moolah?” Bars like these are rampant on the record, yet intertwine with beautiful imagery in surrounding lines. “THE WORLDWIDE SCOURGE” has a gorgeous lyric before the beat drop where Owusu says “dancing with the devil on the surface of the burning world” in regard to his current actions in a harsh political climate. However, Owusu’s delivery really gives his words more power and allows for brilliant bars.

Sonically, the project is at its strongest. The instrumentals are dynamic, moving between funk-driven basslines, otherworldly textures and calmer atmospheric moments. There’s a clear intention behind the variety and the album frequently shifts tone in ways that keep it engaging from track to track. While some may struggle with jarring changes like these, Owusu’s delivery remains consistent, leading to a cohesive project in every sense.

Perhaps the biggest demonstration of all of these points is on the track “DEATH CULT ZOMBIE.” The indie rock guitars combined with funky basslines and boom bap drum patterns combine for a genius instrumental. As if that weren’t enough, Owusu’s delivery is perfectly angry when it needs to be, yet calmer on the hook, making for a moody track that lures listeners in before punching them in the face. On top of that, Owusu spits some amazing bars over this beat, rapping, “I tiki torch a Klansman while I stare down a witness/Andrew Tate pod while you working your fitness/Still can’t figure out why you can’t get any women!” The hilarity of the second half of this line combined with the hostility of the first half makes for deep lyricism that strikes hard.

Overall, Genesis Owusu puts together a cohesive, determined and kick-ass record that does not hold back. The production is spot-on and the writing is near flawless, leading to REDSTAR WU & THE WORLDWIDE SCOURGE becoming an essential listen.