Yourz Truly- A Review
Cue ColdBlooded, a Saint Louis native released his debut LP on August 14th. Needless to say I’m still intrigued by it. From the slick, late summertime bop “Boomerang”, to the smooth, Midwestern vibe of “Give It Time” with help from Steve N. Clair (The other half of The Domino Effect, the duo which includes Cue and Steve). Cue manages to make a statement on several different topics within just 12 tracks. Of these 12 tracks, I highlight a few that stick out to me the most.
What U Do It 4- the opening track begins with a spoken word piece:
Beware of those lines The lines that are as thin as love and hate Those lines that are so thin That even a glimpse of success could make you break These lines If you cross them, what will be your fate Never forget who you are and what makes you great Yourz Truly
This piece really sets the mood for the entire LP. “These lines” have a few different interpretations. The “line” which describes a distinct fear of several things. Possibly racial tensions in America? Showcased in lines scattered throughout the album. The drive to become famous? The overall theme of the album. Staying true to yourself? Also showcased throughout the album. All of the above? Yourz Truly quickly becomes a declaration of personality rather than just a collection of songs. Cue is very determined to stay himself, hence the name Yourz Truly. He wants to be him and stay him no matter what happens. This isn’t just about being humble, I see it as an affirmation of originality and an open invitation to listen to Cue’s story.
Boomerang- This track sets the vibe for a clever metaphor of summertime love. Cue is in love with someone and the lover is skeptical of the relationship. Yet that skepticism is irrelevant because she comes back to him every time. Hence the title, Boomerang.
The first, (and slightly different second verse) verse starts with a statement of questionable intentions:
I was like,
Maybe I’m yours, maybe I’m not?
But as the track continues it’s obvious he cannot erase the moments with this girl. She is constantly in his head and as he eventually comes to terms with this, Cue claims that they are perfect for each other. This song has such a smoothness to it, that Cue’s vocals melt over the chorus when he sings. As the spaced-out instrumentation comes along you find yourself nodding to the beat. Easily the most likable, and attractive song on this LP.
Traffic- Three artists spit wisdom about their lives and knowledge gained from living in the city of Saint Louis.
As you listen in the beginning there are several sounds from the city that allude to the title of the song. Airplanes flying past, birds chirping, cars zooming over the highway. Getting through traffic is a hefty metaphor that speaks about more than just Saint Louis rush hour. Traffic is the culmination of people all going their separate ways, rushing past and slowing down at the same time. But no matter your destination you’ll be caught up in this life with whatever drives you. I love the background vocals on the chorus. The voice just adds a beautiful vibe to an already outstanding track. But even looking past the delicate production, each rapper on the track is phenomenal. I absolutely love the first verse by Lavelle Spitz, who speaks of childhood and growing up knowing you’re different. It’s a very true sentiment in life, and the way he crafts his words is quite impressive. Cue’s delivery sticks more to the thematic route, and P.O.E.T X’s aggressiveness reminds me of a Mick Jenkins style of delivery.
Overall this album stands out as an original, late-night vibe, that details the life of living as a black man in Saint Louis, Determination to stay true to your roots, and generally being yourself. From the flawless production over every song to the lyrical content, and Cue’s vocal performance this album is a classic example of Saint Louis artistry.
Check this out if you’re interested in the underground Saint Louis music scene, Chicago’s music scene, or the overall Midwest style of music.
