Monica & Lil Baby, Trenches | Track Review 🎵

After an extended hiatus, Grammy-winning R&B artist Monica is back alongside Lil Baby on The Neptune’s produced single, “Trenches.”

Monica has always been one of my favorite contemporary R&B singers – I’ll readily admit my bias, haha! Unfortunately, as far as albums are concerned, the last time we heard from Mo was back in 2015 with Code Red.  While Code Red yielded a bop in “Just Right for Me”, the album wasn’t nearly as accomplished as the rest of her discography. That said, nobody asked her to leave us hanging thing long! Thankfully all us Mo fans should be excited that she released a new single, “Trenches” alongside one of 2020’s biggest rappers, Lil Baby.

“Trenches” feels contemporary overall yet doesn’t dare compromised the artistry of Monica. This production, courtesy of The Neptunes, highlights Monica’s best attributes: her voice.  What’s interesting about The Neptunes is that because their production style was so ‘ahead of its time,’ the music they produce still comes off pretty progressive.  In this instance, the production duo does rein themselves in, not going too far left of center.

Lil Baby actually kicks things off, setting the tone of “Trenches.” He gives us gritty, ‘fight for everything’ type vibes: “And you cannot run from reality, gotta face it.”  Trenches indeed! Monica then takes the reins, beginning with the chorus where she advises us all, “Don’t let the game keep playin’ you.” And to that I say, NO CAP! From there, she delivers the second verse and third verses, which touch on adversity, haters, and rising above toxicity. Of course Lil Baby returns on the fourth verse, bringing life lessons as well as the street to “Trenches.”

Final Thoughts

First and foremost, it’s awesome to hear Monica back.  Her and Brandy created quite a splash with their Verzuz Battle, and now, we have new music.  Furthermore, it makes sense for her to pair up with Lil Baby, who is one of the faces of the contemporary music scene.  Is this the second coming? Nope, but, again, at a minimum, it’s great to hear Mo back.

Monica & Lil Baby • “Trenches” • MONDEENISE MUSIC INC • Release: 8.31.20

Photo Credit: MONDEENISE MUSIC INC