Xxxtentacion: Skins (Colored Vinyl) Vinyl LP

Consisting of material that Xxxtentacion was working on before his tragic, ultimately death, Skins is the third studio from the late Florida rapper. With "Bad!" leading the pack, the record continues much of the precedents he set in ?: R&B-influenced singing, alt/emo musical stylings, and a freeform take on hip-hop/trap that has resonated so well with a generation of fans struggling with, as X had during his lifetime, anxiety, depression, anger, and more. Further, Skins is another reminder of the artist's commitment to brevity, with only one of the 10 tracks clocking in at over 3 minutes. There is a notable guest appearance toward the latter half of the album, as Kanye West shares a heartfelt moment on the trashing "One Minute," and X's screamo belting provides a nice contrast to the collected delivery from the seasoned rapper. Other tracks to check out: "I don't let go," "whoa (mind in awe)," and "what are you so afraid of."

• translucent blue vinyl w/ black splatter
• housed in gatefold sleeve w/ lyric + photo booklet
• music label: Bad Vibes Forever 2019

reviewed by singing in japanese 05/19

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