Released: January 12, 2024

Genre: Hip-hop

From: US

Label: Fake Shore Drive / Bruiser Brigade Records

Why you should listen: Idiosyncratic and unique Detroit rapper Bruiser Wolf has released his highly anticipated follow up album to Dope Game Stupid. The 14-track album titled My Story Got Stories captures Bruiser Wolf’s usually animated and witty flows and raps, combined with some of the most soulful, eclectic and energetic production he’s rapped on so far. “Let The Young Boys Eat” kicks off the album with a soulful beat and Bruiser Wolf’s usually witty and clever lyricism being on display from the get-go, with lines like “They had problems with selling marijuana, I had to weed n****s out (Uh)”. “2 Bad” featuring ZelooperZ and Danny Brown is a fast-paced, quirky track with a bass-heavy beat and all 3 Bruisers killing it with their verses. The Raphy-produced “Waiting In The Lobby” is crazy, as Bruiser Wolf flows effortlessly, talking about how he’s going to tell his boy that his mom’s his side bitch. His wit has always been prevalent throughout his music, and there were a few moments that really made me chuckle. The way he sings over the hook on “Holla At Ya Mans” is perfect, while “Looney Tunes” is a colourful one with some funny crude lyrics. “I Was Taught To” features Trinidad James, an odd collab that absolutely works over this heavy trap beat. “G’z & Hustlaz” featuring Fat Ray is another great track, with a phenomenal Raphy beat that is smooth and soulful, yet dynamic, providing the perfect soundscape for both emcees to float throughout it. “Crack Cocaine” featuring Chris Crack has a soulful and colourful beat that is complemented by gritty and witty lyrics. “Skywalkin’” is another highlight for me, with a disorienting fuzzy beat and lines like “my bathroom only got a urinal, that’s cause I shit in the studio” that animate the track with hilarious visualizations. “Before The Fall” closes the album out with a quirky, jazzy cut, a reflective and more personal moment that is captured beautifully by Bruiser Wolf’s animated and unique delivery and tone. My Story Got Stories is another home run for one of Detroit’s best rappers, a colourful, layered and textured body of work that deserves being talked about.

The album: