Joey Purps proves why he stands out on his own with his newest project, "QuarterThing"
Written by Kolin Miller
Quaterthing marks the return of Joey Purp since his last project iiiDrops. While his previous album proved Joey’s adequacy at lyrical construction and replay-ability, this follow up album boasts tip-top cohesiveness.
I’m personally a fan of the Chicago sound. Major players like Chance the Rapper (pre-Coloring Book era, YEAUGH!), Saba, Vic Mensa, and Mick Jenkins have all paved the way in the sub-genre’s advance towards being the dominant sound in hip-hop. Traditionally, Chicago has been associated with drill-rap in the vein of Cheef Keef and G Herbo who are among the “founding fathers” of the popular modern Chicago drill sound. However, ever since Vic Mensa and Chance the Rapper first hit the spotlight, the “Chicago” sound diversified, birthing a more lyrically-focused, live-instrument-based, nostalgic sound. Artists like Saba, Jean Dauex, noname, BJ the Chicago Kid, Towkio, Taylor Bennet, Savemoney, Mick Jenkins, Frank Samuel, The Mind, and many many more, have all emerged as a result. Among the artists to emerge, is Joey Purp.
Quarterthing is impressive in every aspect I’d expect an album by an artist from this sub-genre to be. The production, which originally stood out to me immediately, is very pleasing and organic. The album does not feature nearly as many definitive Chicago natives, however, this allows Joey to stand out as an artist who can carry his own project without going too feature heavy - which just proves his versatility and maturity as an all around artist. Also, the fact that Joey was able to swing two separate features from Wu-Tang Clan members RZA and GZA respectively is impressive in and of itself.
Check out the impressive release below.