[usr 4]

Big K.R.I.T. denounces Satan on “Keep the Devil Off,” the electrifying second single from his third studio album, ‘4eva Is a Mighty Long Time.’

Big K.R.I.T. is an old soul, period.  Old souls tend to have a love for classic things – old-school things.  That is the case with the Mississippi MC, who has experienced moderate success, but never full-blown commercial success.  It doesn’t matter because he has plenty to offer.  That’s obvious on the second single from his forthcoming double album, 4eva Is a Mighty Long Time, “Keep the devil Off.” 

What makes “Keep the devil off” so good? Vibe and production.  The sound of the record is southern to the core, hearkening back to old-school soul and gospel.  Big K.R.I.T. uses this to his advantage, fueling his fire.  There’s organ, guitar, horns, and backing vocals – sheer excellence. Even if you’re not a Christian or a churchgoer, he perfectly captures the feeling like its Sunday services, and he’s the reverend.  The chorus is definitely a key component to the infectiousness.

“Lord be my witness / Gotta keep the devil off (keep the devil off) /…What good are those riches if you’re six feet under? / Lord be my witness, keep the devil off (keep the devil off).”

Beyond the sound, vibes, and chorus, Big K.R.I.T. himself delivers the goods.  His rapping, like his production, continues to embody the past, which is part of his charm.  On the first verse, he says:

“Country boy did this big from the bottom of the map / Top the top of the mountain, pimpin’ I’m on the move / I’m in the groove, on the late night.”

Final Thoughts

All in all, Big K.R.I.T. delivers the goods on “Keep the devil Off.” The biggest rub? It exceeds the five-minute mark.  That’s a lot of devilishness…or rather, heavenly ambitions.  But that’s minor in the least.  Honestly, there’s nothing major to scrutinize in the least.  Overall, it’s great.

Big K.R.I.T. • 4eva Is a Mighty Long Time • BMG Rights Management • Release: 10.27.17

Photo Credit: BMG Rights Management