Tkay Maidza Relives Summer In "Last Year Was Weird, Vol. 1"

There's nothing like reliving memories through music. A certain song can put you back decades, or remind you of a memory you had perhaps forgotten. Tkay Maidza relives summer in Last Year Was Weird, Vol. 1, drawing upon fond memories and lessons to make a mature yet recollective EP.

Last Year Was Weird, Vol. 1 starts off as most summers do: ready to party. The chill, funky start of 'Big Things' amps you up for a great time ahead. 'Flexin'' featuring Duckwrth follows up with a rebellious attitude, the real fun kicking in strong and fast. 'Lullabies' follows with as much confidence but a chiller vibe, bringing the best of both songs together for one summative track. This vibe is one that really defines the record, but that brings some problems with it.

The issue with Last Year Was Weird, Vol. 1 is that after the first few tracks, any trace of a unique sound between songs is lost. By the time you get to 'Growing Up,' you really start to feel like you've pretty much heard the entire record already, as everything just seems to recycle the same sound and message. 'White Rose' follows and it's simply just... boring. It's the same romantic type track that we've all heard before, the only unique thing about it being the metaphor. The album at leads ends on a solid note with 'Say It,' a more mature and reserved ending than the rest of the record, leaving the album off in a way that shows progression from beginning to end.

Tkay Maidza relives summer in Last Year Was Weird, Vol. 1, reliving both the best and the worst moments through the music. Unfortunately, halfway through, the EP finds itself in a creative slump and doesn't quite end up going anywhere, but it does at least show a maturity from beginning to end.

Favorite Track: Flexin'

Least Favorite Track: Growing Up

Rating: 66 / 100

Stream or buy Last Year Was Weird, Vol. 1 on Apple Music, and follow our 2018 Playlist on Spotify: