I was hesitant to listen to Big Sean’s newest project, Dark Sky Paradise, initially. I went into it with the lowest of expectations, trying not to put forth my preconceived biases when reviewing.

You see, I moved to LA from the Metro-Detroit area and lived there during Big Sean’s come-up. A few of my college-mates weren’t too enthused with his success, and me not knowing too much about him then, I let their perceptions of him rub off on me. Stories of Sean being the whackest member of Finally Famous were surfacing, and the mood was somber so I didn’t want to waste my time trying to figure him out.

I have to say, I’m glad that I finally gave him a chance. Dark Sky Paradise is a really good album and I could tell that he poured his heart out in majority of the tracks. He kept it honest and was surprisingly, for me at least, extremely transparent. The LP helped me get to know him on a deeper level, and as a result, I now have a new level of respect for Sean.

Sean’s flow is interestingly rich. His lyrics are witty and intelligent, so much so that I found myself chuckling at a few of his rhymes.

My favorite tracks would have to be Blessings, Paradise, Win Some Lose Some, Stay Down, and I Know.

I’d give the album a B rating – he completely changed my perceptions of his music and I’m impressed. This is definitely a record that I’d listen to during my long commutes.

So, does this officially make me a fan?
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves! But I’m undeniably intrigued by him and will try to listen to more of his music with an open mind.

Great job, Sean!

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                                                                         @bashinla