Gucci Mane offers more of the same on “Tone It Down,” a promo single from his new album, ‘Mr. Davis.’  He enlists Chris Brown for even more saturation.

Gucci Mane has no shortage of material – understatement.  Since his release from prison in 2016, the southern rapper has been one of the most prolific artists in the music industry.  He released Everybody Looking, WOPTOBER, The Return of East Atlanta Santa, and Droptopwop between July 2016 and the publication time.  He continues to expand his discography with “Tone It Down,” a promo single from his new album, Mr. Davis (September 15).  He gets the assist from the ever-ubiquitous Chris Brown. 

Starting with the pros, the production is rock solid.  It’s as slick as expected from a southern rap record.  As always, Chris Brown sounds distinct – no one sounds like him and that can’t be denied him.  As for Gucci Mane, he raps in his signature, mush-mouthed, southern rap style.  Since that’s what helped make him famous, that’s definitely a pro.

Unfortunately, “Tone It Down” is skinny on the pros and heavy on the cons.  At this point, haven’t had enough Gucci Mane? The problem is that as a rapper, what is he doing to evolve his style? “Tone It Down” is tried-and-true, but it’s not tried-and-true in a positive, truly memorable light. Furthermore, he enlists an R&B singer who while distinct, is oversaturated himself.  Chris Brown is on every record, and that’s entirely way too much. Further weighing down “Tone It Down” is the fact that this record sounds like any other hip-hop record out as opposed to being truly distinct or dare being game changing.

Final Thoughts 

At best, “Tone It Down” is average.  Gucci Mane is a great rapper who excels at his style, but here, he doesn’t ‘bring the heat’ or pack a notable punch.  To reiterate, Chris Brown doesn’t help because, he’s oversaturated himself.  Those who enjoy southern rap records for the sake of southern rap records will be on board. For others, this is forgettable.

Gucci Mane • Mr. Davis • Atlantic • Release: 9.15.17 

Photo Credit: Gucci Mane