8/10
The last year or so have proven have turbulent time for hip-hop mega group Brockhampton. With their most notable individual Ameer Vann ousted from the group earlier this year due to domestic abuse allegations, the 14-member outfit have looked to return stronger than ever by addressing the past and moving on from it on their fourth studio album 'iridescence', a record that plays as their best to date.
Over the years, Brockhampton has been a interesting experiment in the world of hip-hop. Channeling the aspect of groups like Wu Tang Clan, ASAP Mob and Odd Future, by bringing together a large number of artists to perform under the same guise, 'iridescence' manages to find the balance amongst all these different styles and delivers a thunderous return that rap music has been waiting for in 2018. Filled with a eclectic collection of ideas and stellar production throughout, this new release sees the group as less of a gimmick and more a fully-formed collective that have learnt how best to juggle their diverse personalities.
There are really no artists we can compare this to, because 'iridescence' is a shape-shifting juggernaut on the scene right now. But rather than feel like a disjointed collection of singles, the album manages a deliver an exciting and engaging release from start to finish with a new surprise around every corner. A perfect example of how a group can move on from their demons and rise to even greater heights than before.