Album Review - “LIFEOFTHEPARLAY” by Derrick Shorter
The term parlay, by definition, is described as a turn of an initial stake or winnings from a previous bet into (a greater amount) by gambling. The parlay is a border between feeling extreme highs or lows. Most musicians are too familiar with this feeling, as by sheer oversaturation of the current musical landscape and market, musicians are participants of their very own parlay. Artists are often fighting to see if the fruits of their labor will turn into a win or simply sheer emptiness. It’s a risk-reward system, and throughout Derrick Shorter’s latest album, “LIFEOFTHEPARLAY” he explores the enthralling bi-polar nature of the parlay, turning in eight songs, showcasing the gambling nature that’s often associated with the risk-reward nature of musicians.
One thing is certain with a Derick Shorter album, and that is It’s always a memorable time with the artist. You can hear it in his bar-tested, affable voice, the sample-heavy beats and extravagant sounds he surrounds it with. But within the context of his music, some measure of stress is always nearby. Within the album “LIFEOFTHEPARLAY” Shorter crafts a solid outing, showcasing his rhymes, which laminates on the good, the memorable, and the unforgettable.
The album begins with “PARLAYPRAYER” a song which highlights the optimistic, yet, ambitious nature of Shorter. During the track he rhymes “Overachieving when it comes to choosing excellence, subtracting people who be making me feel less than.” While you’re never going to hear the most complex metaphor from Shorter, bars like this capture Shorter as an artist. He’s always locked-in with confidence and steady with his approach as a technical emcee.
From the album’s intro it’s a sprint to the finish lead by relatable subject matter, such as “WASTENOTIME” which speaks on the struggles of maintaining a committed relationship or songs such as the RTI$ assisted “MEMORIES” This song serves as a letter back home, as he details the growth of his friends while referring to music and accolades as his only begotten kids.
Production-wise, excellence is the standard for Shorter’s album. He’s constantly looking to improve, and this album is simply another step in the evolution of Shorter, the producer. Samples often fly off the track and bring the listener to its tone and appreciation. If nothing else, the album is worth the listen alone for “DESTINYSCHILD/SNOHAALEGRA” a track one could only describe as beautifully sampled.
Overall, this album is worth the listen and one you’ll appreciate as the project progresses and realize, Shorter has certainly made his parlay. You can listen to the album here.
