Who would’ve thought the sequel could go toe-to-toe with the original?
Alfredo 2 is here, the second collaborative outing from Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist, and it’s nothing short of sublime. From front to back, the LP plays like a nightcrawl through Tokyo’s underbelly: weaving through neon-lit alleys, venturing into smoky backroom bars, brushing shoulders with yakuza types.
If you’re after a masterclass in MC-producer chemistry, this is it. The Alchemist sculpts every beat with intention, giving Freddie the freedom to rap with effortless precision, never straining, never slipping. The flow is easy, almost conversational, pulling you into the details of his stories.
I could’ve chosen any of the 14 tracks, but I’ve opted for the opener, “1995”. Built on a framework of soulful vocal samples and boom-bap drums, Freddie gets to work straightaway, taking playful shots at Giannis Antetokounmpo’s brother, Thanasis, for his questionable play in the NBA, while comparing himself to gangsters from HBO’s iconic show, The Wire.
Just before the 2-minute mark, things kick into unexpected gear as The Alchemist drops in a searing electric guitar riff, leaning hard into that J-rock aesthetic. It’s here that Freddie turns more introspective, opening up about suicidal thoughts during his time in prison while facing sexual assault charges (of which he was ultimately acquitted), and his struggle to resist the pull of every beautiful woman who enters his orbit.
Accompanying the single is an immersive video that follows the pair as they cut shady deals with yakuza, bikies, and strangely plush mascots. Experience a cinematic stroll through Japan’s underworld, guided by two generational talents. Stream below.
