Chance the Rapper

The Big Day

Independent

Weird as it is, this is technically Chance The Rapper’s debut album, given that his past releases were all termed “mixtapes.” Chance said he wanted to save that arbitrary “album” label for his best work. And while The Big Day might not be that, it’s certainly his most defining.

There’s something for every type of Chance fan here, from the acid trippers to the soccer moms. The Big Day is a blend of the irreverent creative spirit of Acid Rap and the gospel/soul wholesomeness of Coloring Book.

A concept album centered around his wedding day last March, Chance manages to translate that feeling of nervous anticipation and excitement into song. It’s long, and it doesn’t quite flow together, but so are weddings and everyone loves those – as a couple of meta skits explain.

A lot of people rip on Chance for being cheesy and overly positive, but the celebratory gospel sound and the genuine delivery behind some of the more emotional tracks makes it genuinely feel-great music. With guests ranging from Randy Newman to Death Cab for Cutie’s Ben Gibbard to Megan Thee Stallion, The Big Day is the most insane but undeniably fun wedding reception you’ve ever been to.

Best Track: I Got You (Always and Forever)

Ben Boddez

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