Album Review: “Since I Have a Lover” by 6LACK, 7.5/10

Zach Isaacs, Sports Editor

6LACK’s third studio album, “Since I Have a Lover”, released on March 2, satisfied his fans’ craving for the smooth R&B and Hip-Hop sounds that he became known for. The Atlanta singer and rapper became popular with his successful freshman studio album called “FREE 6LACK”. With commercial success from songs such as “PRBLMS”, “Ex Calling”, and “East Atlanta Love Letter”, 6LACK showed his talent by having a great ear for alternative production that would blend with his soulful voice.

While having introspective ballads that discuss his inner struggles, what caught my ear and made me a fan of 6LACK’s music was his experimentation in the trap genre, also showing his rapping prowess, gaining respect in the hip hop community. 

For any experimental R&B fan, “Since I Have a Lover” is definitely an album worth giving a listen. With only two features, QUIN on “wunna dem” and Don Toliver on “Temporary”, this album is a perfect showcase of 6LACK’s vision for his future in music. 

Being his first album in five years, I thought that it would be more of a hard hitting statement letting the culture know that he’s back. As the album name and art suggest, this album was anything but. While the album does keep the listener interested throughout, it has more of a psychedelic R&B sound that his past projects tease at. 

“Since I Have a Lover” has standout love-inspired ballads throughout that give insight to 6LACK’s mental state in the moment, one that is experimental and loving life. Songs like “preach” and “Talkback” give enough hip-hop vibes to feel fulfilled as a fan, a message from 6LACK that he hasn’t forgotten his pen game. 

While “Since I Have a Lover” gives insight on the emotional state 6lack is in, it leaves some to be desired on the rapping performances on songs like “B4L” and “Fatal Attraction”.

Clearly 6LACK is transitioning into a new, unknown direction, a move that will be welcomed by me and the rest of his fanbase if “Since I Have a Lover” is an insight to his future music.