Rising rapper Lil Xan keeps things extremely short on “Slingshot,” a one-minute-and-a-half single issued in advance of his debut album, ‘TOTAL XANARCHY.’

On April 6, 2018, the TOTAL XANARCHY occurs. TOTAL XANARCHY, for those out of the loop, is the debut studio album by rising rapper Lil Xan.  Lil Xan is a member of the new-school of rappers whose style is built more on ad-libs and utter shallowness as opposed to being meaningful or transcendent.  The aforementioned characteristics are definitely in play on brief single, “Slingshot.”

The biggest selling point of “Slingshot” by far is the production. Undoubtedly, Bobby Johnson drops a hard-nosed, kickass skeletal beat. Lil Xan feeds off of the toughness, showing some inspiration as a rapper here, which is noteworthy.  At times, Xan’s energy has been questionable, but in this case, he feels invested into what he’s rapping. The flow, hence, also serves as selling point for this one-minute-and-a-half joint.

Excellent production, high-flying energy, and a tight flow bodes well in the favor of “Slingshot.” That said, there is a ‘but.’ First and foremost, this is yet another record that’s incredibly shallow, built off excess as opposed to more deep, thoughtful subject matter.  Lil Xan references drugs, material things, and seems more concerned about exuding toughness. He may have a compelling flow, but he doesn’t say much.  Throw in the ad-libs, and the substance dwindles even more.  In regards to artistry, “Slingshot” shows potential, but there’s still ample room for growth.

Final Thoughts

With TOTAL XANARCHY on deck, it’ll be interesting to see if Lil Xan expands his script.  “Slingshot” is one of his better singles IMO, but, to be taken seriously as an artist, Xan is going to have to expand his game.  One-minute-and-a-half songs aren’t going to cut it always, neither are songs with more fluff (the ad-libs) as opposed to legit narratives or themes.

Lil Xan • TOTAL XANARCHY • Columbia • 2018 • Release: 4.6.18

Photo Credit: Columbia