By Charlie Randall, contributing writer
On Jan. 17, Eminem released a brand new album that both intrigued and confused listeners, whether they were fans, critics or listeners of the genre. While “Music to be Murdered By,” as of right now, is nothing fantastic by typical standards, it definitely piqued interest in the industry primarily due to the dark symbolism, cultural, social and political relevance that some of the tracks bring forward. Keeping in mind that these tracks are unlikely to perform like “Lose Yourself,” the album does have some tracks that leave the listener and Eminem fan more than satisfied.
Detroit-born Marshall Mathers, also known as “Eminem,” began his career in music around 1988 when he first became active. In his career, he had released borderline record-breaking tracks such as the aforementioned “Lose Yourself” and “Rap God.” As well as winning 15 Grammys, selling 220 million records worldwide and recording 10 studio albums – it’s no surprise that Eminem is the best-selling rap artist of all time. So, does this album continue to add to his illustrious rap legacy, or does it act as a catalyst to move him into obscurity? Well, both. Here’s why.
“Music to be Murdered By” is not designed like typical albums. It is not mass-appeal, it is more to confuse and make uncomfortable. This is not too far off from Eminem’s typical writing style, but it takes a step beyond his “usual” style. For example, “Stepdad,” which is a very uncomfortable track, resembles how he fantasizes about murdering his stepfather who is abusive to him and his mother. While this song is sure to raise eyebrows, it could very well turn people off to the song and maybe the album as a whole.
On the flipside, Eminem has several tracks with some very popular and successful features. Such as “Godzilla” featuring the recently deceased Juice WRLD. This song was undoubtedly well-written, “the ghostly you’re a monster” draws the listener in and immediately begins with the punching lines from Eminem and soft vocals from Juice WRLD.
This album is not too different from his past work. It still features the exhausting double-time, machine-gun speed rap that Eminem made famous when the “Real Slim-Shady” first stood up. While this is entertaining and challenging for a listener to replicate, it does take away from the overall musicality of the song as a whole.
Unfortunately for Eminem listeners, this album has a myriad of speed talking, which to someone who isn’t a trained listener or an Eminem fan, could sound like the songs run together. Not to say it is not challenging or any less impressive that he could rap that fast, as not many artists can do that, but there is just too much of it. However, it is commendable that Eminiem can move his mouth that fast while also conveying a story to the audience.
Overall, while “Music to be Murdered By” was not the most musical and probably won’t be seen as his most popular, some say it was the most confusing, yet intriguing. Songs like “Darkness” made audiences uncomfortable as Eminem reawakened issues like shootings and crimes, while also making people want to dance around to “Godzilla,” it is difficult to review an album so unique with not much to compare it to. That being said, this album is unique in its own way and almost needs to be viewed in its own category in order to do it complete justice.
randalco18@bonaventure.edu
