The grand majority of music lovers were first introduced to the Kenyan-American artist KayCyy through Kanye West’s "Donda" album. However, even before then, he has been building up steam as he nears the release of his debut LP “Who Is KayCyy?"
Though not a complete project, the artists new mixtape “Get Used To It” shows his measureless potential.
Album Highs
Just like his previous work, the production quality is unparalleled. This tape contains interesting beat selections and high-end background vocals.
One of the standout tracks is “Shoutouts,” which references the piano melody in Travis Scott’s “Apple Pie." Like many of his other projects, KayCyy takes flows that can draw comparisons to artists like Playboi Carti and SahBabii.
The best thing about this album when you compare it to his previous work is that he seems to be clawing out his sound. He has laidback energy and standout melodies that keep listeners intrigued.
In addition, his conversational approach to songs like “Howwww” is a bold path only a few artists try to take (e.g., Teezo Touchdown and Young Thug).
Finally, the features were perfectly selected, having production credits from Johan Lenox and Daniel Caesar. Artists such as 070 Shake, Annahstasia, and Lancey Foux fit so well with his sound it seems to have been predestined by gods.
Album Lows
While he is known for his melodies, his lyrical ability, for the most part, is nothing special. Plus, KayCyy has a wide range of influences, and at times they seem too obvious. There are flashes of him being able to take them into his own sound, but when he fails, it sounds like an unimaginative imitation.
While this is a mixtape, I am intrigued to see if he can manipulate his sound to keep listeners captivated for a whole album.
Finally, while there are great tracks that can lead you to a new high, it feels as if there is no song that latches on. If he truly wants his debut album to be on par with his favorite artists, he will need a defining song or an album so solid it will reel back thousands of listeners for more.
Though it was released the same day as artists such as Post Malone, 070 Shake, and Vory, this mixtape gained plenty of attention.
“I’m the truth. People are getting the same thing every time so it’s time for something new. I want to at least give them a chance to see if they like it or not. As long as they have the chance to see and decide, that’s all I need. 99% of the time, they’re going to fuck with me," KayCyy said in an interview with Flaunt Magazine.
With a mixtape like this and this energy going forward, I cannot doubt him.
The album is full of potential, but KayCyy still needs to smooth out the edges and find his voice. I give the LP a 6 out of 10.
Best Tracks
“Howwww”
“Hold You Up”
“Shoutouts”
