What’s up citizens this ya guy Rob Markman with The Rob Report, where we break down music for the game’s hottest artists. Last week we reviewed Mac Miller’s Good AM and this week we’re going to Harlem NY to checkout Dave East’s Hate Me Now mixtape.
Dave East has been establishing his sound long before Nas hand-picked the New York spitter to join his Mass Appeal label, and while East is more than capable, the confidence that comes from a God’s Son co-sign can’t hurt at all. And in a lot of ways the DJ Drama-hosted Hate Me Now will serve as a Dave East introduction for many fans. On “Give It To Her” Dave links with Rico Love to show off a softer side and his storytelling skills, while on “Numb” he paints a picture of pain in the projects. Then there’s “Call My Coach”, the mixtape’s banging intro.
It’s hard to hate on Dave East, especially when Hate Me Now is filled with so many street bangers. If I do have one criticism though it’s that the tape is long. With 20 tracks it takes a real time commitment to experience this tape in it’s entirety. Personally I would’ve preferred 10-12 songs, leaving me to want more. But maybe that’s just me. “Momma Working” is relatable hustler anthem like we never heard, while “Get Acquainted” is just banging. Still, it’s the Nas assisted “Forbes List” which stands out as a highlight.
When it’s all said and done I give Dave East’s Hate Me Now a 7.5 out of 10. It’s rock solid with no let up, I would’ve just liked a better album experience, something that I could spin back to back with no interruptions. But that’s just my take on it, hit me up on Twitter @RobMarkman, let me know what you think. I talk back.
