by Alex Nnabue ‘18

Logic, rapper and Montgomery County native, released his third studio album “Everybody” on May 5. The album is centered around strong political and social messages as Logic raps about his upbringing in Gaithersburg, systematic inequality, racism, and mental health. Following the format of Logic’s previous projects, “Everybody” includes a storyline with skits embedded in select songs.

The plot follows two narrators, one who stars as God, and another as Atom. After dying in a car accident, Atom encounters God in purgatory, a “waiting room” for Heaven, and he informs Atom about his upcoming reincarnation.

The album is composed of many powerful songs. “Hallelujah” serves as a strong album opening with upbeat piano riffs and soul-inspired rhythms. Logic praises God and assures his listeners that the album is for “all [his] brothers and sisters.”

“Everybody,” the album titled single, introduces the topic of police brutality and Logic’s struggle with being accepted by blacks and whites due to being biracial. Logic raps that in his blood is both “the slave and the master.” The theme of unity amongst the human race is prevalent as Logic insists that despite physical differences, everybody bleeds and loves.

“Waiting Room” is a skit in which God tells Atom that his next reincarnation will be as an 1800s slave owner. God reveals that Atom is every human being that has ever existed. After Atom experiences life as every race, gender, and class, he essentially enters the afterlife and becomes God.

After this song, the album experiences a shift as “1-800-273-8255” and “Anziety” are more intimate and introduce the topic of overcoming depression, suicidal thoughts, and anxiety. “1-800-273-8255” is titled after the National Suicide Prevention Hotline and features Khalid and Alessia Cara. The album’s hit single resembles a classic Logic song as it incorporates mellow beats and some gospel vocal backups. “Anziety” includes calming soprano melodies while incorporating explosive beats for Logic to rap on. The rapper utilizes string instruments while he discusses his experiences with anxiety that caused an episode of derealization in 2015.

“Black SpiderMan” features orchestral melodies and strong piano riffs. Logic continues to rap about being misunderstood by society and his family while growing up. However, Logic strives to defy stereotypes as he is not ashamed of his Mexican wife and raps that he wants neither to be black nor white but just a man. Furthermore, Logic pleads for black representation.

“AfricAryaN” is a strong conclusion to “Everybody” as it mixes mellow chill beats, a calming piano melody, and jazz-inspired saxophone solos. Logic claims that “[his] skin fair but life’s not.” The plot concludes with God telling Atom that no matter how successful or rich an individual is, everybody ends up 6 feet under. God insists Atom live his life in the moment. The end of the song features a nearly 3-minute verse by rapper J.Cole. “Everybody” is an impactful and woke album as it addresses timely social issues in America while shedding a light on some of Logic’s personal experiences. The album’s storyline also keeps audiences engaged and eager for more plot reveals. Overall, “Everybody” successfully reaches and caters to all audiences by relating to people from different backgrounds.

GRADE:
A-