A$AP Rocky brings a variety of new and old sounds to the latest addition of his discography, Don’t Be Dumb.

Rocky has been teasing this project for several years. He chose Jan. 16 specifically to release the album as it is celebrated as “National Nothing Day,” a playful message to fans who have been waiting such a long time for the album.

Rocky is well known for his influence in both the rap and fashion game, and this album definitely re-establishes him in the rap industry. The album contains 17 tracks and is an hour long.

In the years leading up to the album, Rocky has still released plenty of songs, like “Highjack,” that kept fans anticipating the album. Rocky has also performed songs such as “Stole Ya Flow” at festivals like Rolling Loud dating back years before this release. 

Rocky starts off strong on the new album with “Order of Protection” and “Helicopter.” These songs kick off this new album perfectly, as they have the signature Rocky flow and fast moving beats.

As the album progresses, more and more features crop up. The most notable include Brent Faiyaz on “Stay Here 4 Life,” Westside Gunn on “Whiskey (Release Me),” and Tyler the Creator on “Fish n Steak (What it is).”

“Stay Here 4 Life” uses Brent Faiyaz as a feature beautifully, and Rocky’s lyrics work smoothly with the beat. Faiyaz is a very good selection as his vocals are angelic. This song includes what seems to be a sample of Ken Carson’s “Mewtwo.”

“Punk Rocky” slows things down, proving that this album does not have a distinct style. It is nice to see Rocky showing his versatility, and it definitely makes the album worth waiting for. 

The most notable songs that follow are “Airforce,” which includes many beat switches, and “Whiskey (Release Me),” which again brings back that signature Rocky feeling.

Even though this year has just begun, Don’t be Dumb seriously could be in contention for Album of the Year. Regardless of the wait, Rocky masterfully crafted this album, and it shows. Any fan of rap should give this a listen.