East Coast Rapper Action Bronson returns with the brief “Let Me Breathe,” a promo single for his forthcoming, sophomore album. 

Action Bronson is back Y’all! The 33-year old rapper returns after dropping his debut album in 2015, Mr. Wonderful, noted for single “Baby Blue” featuring Chance the Rapper.  “Let Me Breathe” serves as a promo single for his pending sophomore album.  Ultimately, it whets the palate but isn’t decadent enough to leave a satisfying aftertaste.

The first thing listeners will notice about “Let Me Breathe” is the production work, which sounds slicker than anything that graced Mr. Wonderful.  Still, “Let Me Breathe” doesn’t sound as if it’s completely embraced the modern script – kind of weird.  Nonetheless, this sound serves as a respectable backdrop for Action Bronson to spit over.  It’s not overproduced, nor is it under-produced.  An ‘A’? Nah, the production’s a ‘B+’ or ‘B’ at best.

But this isn’t really about the production. It’s about Action Bronson and his artistry, rapping skills, and lyrics.  Artistically, he has a big personality, which he continues to convey on “Let Me Breathe,” whether you like him or not.  He’s not the ‘artist of the year’ by any means, nor is he the ‘artist of this generation,’ but he’s got something.  His rapping – specifically his flow – is solid.  So, that leaves the lyrics and theme of the song.

Basically, AB is flexing, period.  There is no substance, keeping it 100.  On the first verse, he brags about his rapping, choosing a lofty example to compare his skills to.

“It’s like I’m at the studio with Michael (Michael Jackson) / You can hear me dancing on the beat.”

Feeling Yourself much Action? The flex continues on throughout the course of the song.  On the second verse, he brags, “I got two shows, I’m about to pitch another,” showcasing his popularity and riches.  Of course, no accomplished rap joint by a male rapper doesn’t reference the nasty, particularly notches in the belt.

“Honey bouncing up and down / She nearly broke my ____”

Can you fill in the blank?

Final Thoughts

So, how does “Let Me Breathe” stack up? It’s respectable, but not game changing.  In reiteration, Action Bronson still shows off his persona and has a nice flow.  Lyrically and thematically, however, it’s more cliché as opposed to groundbreaking.

Action Bronson • Let Me Breathe – Single • Atlantic • Release: 6.14.17

Photo Credit: Atlantic