Big Sean & Metro Boomin - 'Double Or Nothing' Review

Social media exploded into a firestorm when Big Sean and Metro Boomin dropped Double Or Nothing. Many have been quick to dismiss this project as “trash,” and quick to label Big Sean as a sub-par rapper. Joe Budden was even quick to assert that this project shouldn’t exist at all.

When you wade through all of the noise, there’s a valid critique about Sean’s artistry: he is often a contender for the top five conversation in hip-hop, but can’t quite solidify a spot next to Drake, Kendrick, and Cole. Yet if we stretch these margins, Sean is undoubtedly a top ten rapper.

Double Or Nothing is far from trash. There’s more than enough chemistry between Sean and Metro to warrant the release of this project. Read on.

1.) “Go Legend” ft. Travis Scott

Metro samples on this album a lot more than he has in the past. The intro features a sample of Diana Ross’s “Theme From Mahogany.” Then without further adieu, the listener is snatched from the Motown days and thrust into the twenty first century. Hip-Hop’s leading android crooner, Travis Scott, delivers an infectious hook over slapping production, while Sean rides the beat like a true veteran. How can you hate a project that has a song of this caliber on it?

2.) “Big Bidness” ft. 2 Chainz

Sean takes the reins from Travis Scott to deliver an aggressive hook on this one. The snare on this track sounds like a sample from Kanye West’s “Good Morning.” Sean flows effortlessly and 2 Chainz proves to be a force to reckoned with. If there’s anything cringeworthy about this song, it’s when Sean brags about his co-sign from Kanye West. This far along into his career, he doesn’t need to pay anymore homage. Sean shouldn't need validation from Ye to remind us he's great.

3.) “Who’s Stopping Me”

One thing is clear: Young Metro definitely trusts Big Sean. Sean even calls this “the best beat thus far.” There are allusions to Rosa Parks, Narcos, and a chorus that’s filled with so much bravado that it would uplift anyone feeling under. What’s not to love?

4.) “Pull Up N Wreck” ft. 21 Savage

This is the lead single for this project. It’s decent, but not the best collaboration between Metro and Sean. There are lackluster bars here, and 21 Savage’s presence doesn’t alleviate this. Moving on.

5.) “So Good”

This is Metro’s worst beat this year. It’s easily Sean’s least appealing song as well. There are too many terrible bars on this one. I won’t defend Sean here.

6.) “Savage Time”

“I’m not playin’ with you bitch, this ain’t the WNBA”... cringeworthy. Sean makes up for these bars at the beginning by speaking for the streets. He scrutinizes police killings, and the lack of hope in impoverished neighborhoods. This song slightly makes up for the last two tracks.

7.) “Even The Odds” ft. Young Thug

This track’s production is down tempo and sinister. It's the trap version of a bad omen. Drive to this late at night; thank me later. Young Thug delivers a stellar feature, and Sean assumes a cadence near the last minute of the song that we haven’t heard from him before. This track is golden.

8.) “In Tune”

Metro grabs another excellent sample on this one. This time, he samples Lori Perry’s “Up Against the Wind.” Like the previous track, this is another slow roaster. It's filled with an eerie string arrangement and unapologetic 808 and snare. Sean’s wordplay and flow on this is top-tier.

9.) “Reason” ft. Swae Lee

This track is decent. Swae Lee provides good supporting vocals, the beat is decent, but overall this song lacks conviction. If nothing else, the hook is catchy. However, don’t expect to revisit the verses much.

10.) “No Hearts, No Love”

The soulful production from Metro provides the perfect sound-palette for Sean to paint with. Sean carries a chip on his shoulder until the end. And with everyone hating on him, it’s no coincidence. This track is a great closer.

Essentials

“Go Legend”

“Who’s Stopping Me”

“Even the Odds”

“In Tune”

The Verdict

For the most part, Big Sean’s collaboration with Metro Boomin is a cohesive listen. Are there cringeworthy bars? Yes. Are people overly critical of this project? Also, yes. Hip-Hop loved Without Warningeven though 21 Savage and Offset don’t have much substance. Yet because of a few lackluster moments, a “lyrical” rapper isn’t allowed any wiggle-room. Sounds hypocritical if you ask me. Sean is still a top-tier rapper though, and Metro is still a top-tier producer. Double Or Nothing is a B.