Rapper Baby Keem released his fourth project and debut studio album on Sep. 10, 2021. The tracklist contains singles “Family Ties” and “Range Brothers,” both featuring Kendrick Lamar who is Keem’s cousin. Also included was his single featuring Travis Scott titled “Durag Activity.” 

All three of these demonstrated Keem’s artistic style, hinting that the album would be just as creative. “The Melodic Blue” did not disappoint with a wide variety of tempos and moods, sometimes even in just one song. This album displayed Keem’s style better than past projects. In addition to the features from the three included singles, this album also features Don Toliver on “Cocoa” and an uncredited part by singer Brent Faiyaz on “Lost Souls.”

The best songs on the album include the intro, “Family Ties,” “Booman” and the outro. The intro, “Trademark USA” starts in Keem’s feelings before quickly transitioning into a fast and upbeat series of flows that linger in listeners’ ears. The song then slows down with an almost inaudible sample, which plays briefly before Keem finishes the song with another pair of creative flows. In this song, Keem uses this variety of moods and tones to convey many subjects on one track. In a way, this song serves as a thesis statement for the album, where Keem briefly touches on the various topics he will address throughout. Not every song is as all-over-the-place as “Trademark USA,” but many do include a dramatic flow switch, even if it does not totally change the mood. However, Keem does not let himself be a one-trick pony on this album, he pairs his elaborate style with impressive lyrics that entice the listener on a number of levels.

The diversity in both tempo and sound among the tracks of this album makes it so listeners always have something new to be entertained by, whether that may be the complex flow patterns, intricate rhyme schemes, captivating song lyrics or fascinating instrumentals. Overall, Keem seemed to have taken a step towards greatness with “The Melodic Blue.” Keem refined his signature style and presented it in a more mature and meaningful way than past albums.