The Return of Dagrin Starts on a Shaky Note.
Grinface might not have been a masterpiece like CEO album, yet, it peeps to the potential greatness of TROD if he can harness his skill and talent.
TROD–the younger brother of late rapper Dagrin has been building up on the late rapper's legacy. From the tacky name;The Return Of Dagrin (TROD), similarities with his brother's rap flow, ad-libs, and sayings. The industry has found it difficult to accept this cheesy branding, the infrequent music release by TROD has not even been helpful.
His new album “Grinface,” an ambitious fifteen-tracks album with Olamide, Sossick, Junior Boy, Davolee, and more all served as a guest.
The album kick starts with the guitar strings, drill sampled “Ise,” an ode to work ethic on the street. It took Sossick–Dagrin's most recognised producer to give the album the sparkle it needs. “Steady,” can rival any hip-hop beat produced this year. It's bopping, giving off a New York City aura. A standout track off the album. Psycho YP assisted “Boner,” and also “Sexy," revolves around hedonism.
The motif on this album is what Dagrin would say if he was alive. TROD only stuck to the moment, he explored more sounds, and kept sterile verses–occasionally yet the lack of originality still cringes the ears.
After more than two years of waiting, Olamide picked up TROD's call. The YBNL boss appeared on “Shey You Fit Go,” when he tries to be menacing, he falters, Olamide's chaotic verse fails to elicit much positive reaction.
“Double Up," is the only time TROD put his mouth where his money is. Wild and fun at the same time. “Ode lon like," is a message to naysayers. When TROD talks about Drugs & Money, you find it difficult to situate the theme, is he being real or ridiculous?
The insecurities of TROD are splashed on tracks like “Questions," and “Let's Love," and the album title track serves as a tribute to Dagrin.
Grinface might not have been a masterpiece like CEO album, yet, it peeps to the potential greatness of TROD if he can harness his skill and talent. The perennial comparison with Dagrin looks likely to stifle his growth.
2/5
Emmanuel Daraloye