JID, a prominent figure in the contemporary hip-hop landscape, has finally shared his eagerly awaited fourth studio album, titled 'God Does Like Ugly.' This 15-song collection, arriving roughly three years after his critically acclaimed 'The Forever Story,' represents a richly conceptualized narrative that seamlessly weaves together various musical styles, compelling guest verses, and deeply personal anecdotes, culminating in a truly expansive auditory journey.
The album is characterized by its wealth of high-profile collaborations, commencing with Westside Gunn on the track “YouUgly.” This two-part composition features each artist delivering a solo performance for approximately two minutes, setting an engaging tone. Further showcasing JID's versatility, single “WRK” appears as the third track, expanding on the themes of diligence and earned success explored in the preceding song, “Glory.” Another notable moment arises with Clipse contributing to “Community,” while JID takes center stage on “Gz,” the fifth track, demonstrating his formidable solo prowess. The collaborative spirit continues with Vince Staples on “VCR,” followed by the current fan-favorite, “Sk8,” which features dynamic contributions from Ciara and EARTHGANG. Don Toliver offers a more subdued and introspective piece with “What We On,” leading into the ethereal “Wholeheartedly,” enhanced by the talents of Ty Dolla $ign and 6LACK. The album further benefits from guest appearances by Jessie Reyez, Baby Kia, Mereba, and Pastor Troy on tracks like “No Boo,” “On McAfee,” “Of Blue,” and “K-Word,” respectively. Deliberately placed interludes, featuring the artist's pastor and a member of his team on “Glory,” thoughtfully punctuate the meticulously crafted and expertly produced selections.
While 'God Does Like Ugly' may not possess the same unified sonic texture as its predecessors, 'DiCaprio 2' or 'The Forever Story,' the entire genre-blending tracklist is expertly held together by JID's exceptional ability to craft compelling narratives, inviting listeners into his unique artistic vision. The album is now available across all major streaming platforms, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in its rich and intricate soundscape.
The release of 'God Does Like Ugly' signifies not only a significant milestone in JID's musical journey but also underscores the power of artistic collaboration and the boundless potential of creative expression. In an industry often focused on trends, JID's dedication to authentic storytelling and genre exploration serves as a testament to the enduring value of artistic integrity and the profound impact music can have on connecting with diverse audiences. His willingness to push boundaries and invite a multitude of voices into his work showcases a positive and forward-thinking approach to contemporary music creation.