Trap artist $not’s new LP Ethereal is a confusingly unpleasant listen.

The album’s rollout ended with the controversial “Doja” causing a stir, even reaching Doja Cat — the artist referenced in this song. Disregarding its provocative lyrics, the song is a highlight on the album.

“Benzo” has much potential but feels empty. A rapper with a much more aggressive delivery such as A$ap Ferg would fit its grittiness better. 

In an album full of trap music and heavy bass, “Blue Moon” sticks out in the worst way. Its lackluster performance and cliche lo-fi hip-hop instrumental harms the album’s cohesiveness.

The album’s quality goes further down from there on “How U Feel,” which may be the worst song on the album. It begins with what sounds like a vulnerable retrospective track over boombap production, but he then shifts to more braggadocious and vulgar lyrics. His struggle to stay on tempo makes it hard to listen to and it’s clear he can’t keep up with the feature.

Aside from the low moments, “Fighting Me” and “High IQ” are, arguably, the best songs on the album. “High IQ” is a very creative song in the style of drill hip-hop. The contrast between the folk sample paired with $not’s energetic rapping makes it an interesting listening experience. 

The sounds on this album would interest those who like Comethazine, Ski Mask The Slump God, and Cochise.