Burning Desire by MIKE | Review
Before the year comes to an end, NY rapper MIKE is ensuring that he’s occupying a few spaces on people’s favorite albums of the year lists. Only a month after his collaborative effort with Wiki and The Alchemist, Faith is a Rock; the talented artist returns with his latest solo album Burning Desires. Just like most albums from MIKE, you expect overflowing of witty wordplays and smothered soul samples that feel like a blanket— but on his latest effort, the emcee steps in a realm of creative possibilities while wearing his heart on his sleeve proudly. MIKE delves into universal themes like grief, family, and identity on his latest sonic offering.
MIKE's prowess is evident in the carefully sculpted pockets of sonic space he discovers within these compositions, offering the perfect canvas for some of his most agile and skillful rapping to date. "plz don’t cut my wings" featuring Earl Sweatshirt sets the tone for the album, featuring MIKE's signature laid-back flow and reflective lyrics. It introduces themes of self-discovery and resilience. On “98” MIKE reflects on a brief moment in his adolescence; truly a coming of age feeling. The pugnacious production on "African Sex Freak Fantasy" provided the perfect realm for MIKE demonstrating his willingness to experiment. Under his producer alias, dj blackpower, Burning Desire serves as a compelling showcase of MIKE's evolution as a producer. Each track represents a meticulously crafted soundscape, akin to a delicately arranged ecosystem he’s designed.
The album's tracks blend seamlessly into one another, creating a cohesive narrative. MIKE's storytelling and lyrical abilities shine throughout, inviting listeners into his introspective world while tackling a variety of topics. Each song is a unique experience, contributing to the overall depth and richness of Burning Desire. MIKE's ability to balance the exploration of grief and happiness in Burning Desire is a testament to his lyrical depth and emotional range. He captures the multifaceted nature of human experience, offering listeners a nuanced and authentic portrayal of life's ups and downs.
