Childish Gambino Showed Off His Dynamic In "Because The Internet"

Back in the day, it was cool to hate on Childish Gambino. Now, the 'This Is America' rapper is widely hailed as one of music's most influential figures. Add the acclaim to his acting career, and you're looking at one of the world's most talented people. The world didn't see that at first, even though he was already showing his creativity early on. Childish Gambino showed off his dynamic in Because The Internet, his 2013 sophomore release that captured his creative mind.

Because The Internet is a long album, so it has a lot of time to explore different concepts. It can be a bit jarring at times how quickly Donald Glover changes pace, but often times it's done effectively to capture your attention. There are several more accessible numbers at the start of the record that help you ease into the record before stuff starts really getting chaotic. Tracks like 'The Worst Guys' with Chance The Rapper and the quick-fire, hype 'Sweatpants' help ease the listener in. Even later on the record, tracks like 'No Exit' keep up a more indie vibe going. 'The Party' is a shorter song that even brings a little humor to the table, Gambino's character coming through a little bit. 'Pink Toes' with Jhene Aiko, whose vocals sound crystalline on the track, really captures a high school vibe, too.

It's the wilder tracks that really show what Gambino is capable of, however. Towards the end of the record, things even get a bit existential. 'Earth: The Oldest Computer (The Last Night)' feels like a fever dream, its alien sound and awesome atmosphere, along with the Azealia Banks feature, really offering up a unique sound. 'Flight Of The Navigator' and 'Zealots Of Stockholm (Free Information)' get almost industrial with how mechanical and dark they are. Earlier on the record, songs like 'Crawl' and 'WORLDSTAR' are dark and brooding and have a statement attached to them. Glover really did it all on this record, having fun while making important statements at the same time.

Childish Gambino showed off his dynamic in Because The Internet, bringing unique songs that are both catchy and powerful. His music was always unique and even if at first it wasn't accepted, he didn't falter and is now an icon. It goes to show that if you don't quit at what you're passionate about, you'll find your success.

Favorite Tracks: Earth: The Oldest Computer (The Last Night), Sweatpands, Zealots Of Stockholm (Free Information)

Least Favorite Track: Death By Numbers

Rating: 76 / 100

Stream or buy Because The Internet on Apple Music, and follow our Throwback Playlist on Spotify: