Rapper Kiari Kendrell Cephus, professionally known as Offset, released his solo album “Father of 4” on Feb. 22. The album is masterfully produced and includes features from popular hip-hop artists such as Travis Scott, 21 Savage, Gunna, J. Cole, Quavo and Cardi B. Photo fair use of pitchfork.com
Rapper Kiari Kendrell Cephus, released his solo project called “Father of 4” on Feb. 22. The album has features from a variety of hip-hop artists, is masterfully produced and proves Cephus’ worth as a solo rapper.
After the release of “QUAVO HUNCHO” and “The Last Rocket” by fellow Migos members Quavo and Takeoff, rapper Kiari Kendrell Cephus, professionally known as “Offset”, faced pressure to release a solo project that could compete with his partners.
Fortunately for him, “Father of 4” surpasses his partners’ critically acclaimed solo projects by a landslide.
Per the name of the album, “Father of 4” shows a more personal side of Cephus, while staying true to his rap origins. The album shows him as a family man, as he brags about his four children throughout and, apologizes to wife and hip-hop artist Cardi B for a cheating scandal in late 2018 with the song “Don’t Lose Me.”
The album features soothing production with deep bass from popular hip-hop producer Metro Boomin. Tracks such as “Lick”, “Made Men”, and “Red Room” showcase Offset’s solo skills, while tracks such as “How Did I Get Here (feat J. Cole)” and “Legacy (feat Travis Scott and 21 Savage)”, showcase flexibility that makes featured artists pop.
He shoots off lyrics at a quick pace in some tracks, “Started at ten bands when I’m comin’ up/‘Member when I cashed on a Bently truck,” and slows down for a more serious effect on others, “Used to fight, the streets is harsh/I wasn’t right, locked behind bars.”
Critics of “Father of 4” may claim that the album is in too many places at once, and thus unfocused. This diversity, however, is one of its greatest highlights, making it the masterpiece it is. Offset shows listeners he’s more than a member of the Migo’s, but an individual that can hold his own crown. The album is great to listen to in any situation and will leave listeners yearning for more.
“Father of 4” is available on all streaming platforms and on iTunes for $11.99.