In 2018, Saba released the emotionally charged CARE FOR ME, which was subject to widespread critical acclaim. Today, it is generally revered as a classic.
Nearly four years later, the Chicago MC announced that he would be releasing his next project on February 4th, titled Few Good Things. The day before the release date, Saba tweeted a think-piece in an attempt to give the upcoming project context. In a nutshell, he wants to escape the notion that his music is strictly centered around trauma.
At the time of the CARE FOR ME release, Saba was recovering from pain resulting from the murder of his cousin. His emotion and trauma from the tragedy was evident in his music. With Few Good Things, his goal was to explain the emotions he experiences from all spectrums, not letting his trauma dominate his reputation as an artist, stating
“Now obviously I’m known to dive into some pretty sensitive subjects… I’m just asking you not to throw the death and traumas that have plagued me and my crew back into my face when I have said so much more.”
His statement provided excellent context for the project.
Saba channeled his vision and delivered an excellent body of work. One of the most impressive aspects of the project its diverse sounds. A lot of artists fall into the trap of releasing projects with songs that sound like copies of the one prior, making the listening experience boring and prolonged. Featuring production from Saba himself, daedaePIVOT, Dauod and Cheflee, the album is filled with distinct R&B influences. No two songs sound the same. Songs like “Soldier” featuring the in-house Pivot Gang and “a Simpler Time” featuring Mereba quite honestly challenge the parameters of what a hip-hop song can sound like.
Lyrically, Saba is razor sharp on the project. On the intro track, “Free Samples”, Saba comes out of the gate swinging with an upbeat flow and impressive wordplay, which is also seen throughout the album. His flows are very diverse as well, helping to cement his versatility as an artist.
As far as the lyrical content is concerned, Saba does a fantastic job at lacing each line with purpose and substance. Sticking to his promise to not make a project centered around trauma, he speaks on several topics. On “One Way or Every N**** With a Budget,” he explains trying to balance the enjoyment and baggage that comes from obtaining riches, success, and fame. One of the lead singles, “Stop That”, speaks to understanding the value of yourself and not allowing others to define what you think of the person you truly are. “2012” describes the happier parts of Saba’s adolescence. His goal to discuss various themes was indeed successful.
The range of artists featured is very intriguing. The features range from The Roots’ lyrical spartan, Black Thought, on “Few Goods Things”, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony member Krayzie Bone on the single, “Come My Way” and fellow Chicago MC G Herbo on the final single release, “Survivor’s Guilt.” Smino and 6lack also join forces with Saba on “Still,” which is one of the stand out tracks on the album. 6lack delivers a catchy hook while Smino delivers an excellent, unique verse.
Overall, Saba’s focus on the album brings it together. It is evident that every track was put in place for a reason. The sonic cohesion and sequencing brings tremendous structure to the album. In an era of music where albums are curated simply as playlists where tracks are randomly thrown together, it is refreshing to see an artist take time and be meticulous when creating a body of work.
Truly, the only low moment of the project is during the track “If I Had a Dollar.” While the lyrics are still meaningful, the hook leaves much to be desired. It seems as if Saba attempted to be too experimental vocally and it did not land as intended.
Few Good Things truly gets better with every listen. While his four year absence may have been a little long, he did not rush and compromise his vision, which made the hiatus 100% worth it.
STAND OUT SONGS: “One Way or Every N**** With a Budget”, “Come My Way” Feat. Krayzie Bone, “Still” Feat. 6lack and Smino, “2012” Feat. Day Wave
RATING: 8.5/10
Listen to Few Good Things right here and be sure to keep up with Saba via his official Instagram and Twitter accounts.