If you keep up with the Atlanta trap music scene, someone who's been consistently crushing it is rapper Lil PJ. After two standout guest performances on singles from fellow Atlanta artists Lil Gotit "Father's Day" and ‘Tellin Ya", he strives to continue expanding upon his graceful trap sound with his new 14-song project Gift From God. An airy, uplifting LP, Gift From God showcases his knack for earworm melodies, and features guest performances from Lil Keed, Slimelife Shawty, and more.
Opener "So Many Times" introduces the album on a bittersweet note, finding Lil PJ exploring his introspective side with heartfelt bars and wistful pianos. The album single "Speeding Fast" with CEO Trayle provides a refreshing take on the classic Atlanta sound, with cloudy synths and bouncy, driving 808s. He comes through with especially memorable melodies as he trades verses with CEO Trayle, showcasing a natural chemistry with the fellow Atlanta artist. The Lil Keed-assisted "Leveled Up" provides a buoyant sound with glowing instrumentation and pillowy 808s that lift the song up to the clouds. Here, PJ and Keed keep the listener on their toes with engaging, dynamic melodies that never fall into a predictable pattern. Songs like "Whole Lotta Money" and "Doors Off" featuring Bslime feel sonically rawer and more intense, with triumphant, powerful instrumentals with rumbling low ends. While "Buzz" finds the artist showcasing some of his sharpest songwriting, with uplifting verses and layered backing vocals that blend together smoothly. Finally, the album closes with "Phone Ring", a wistful offering centred around inspiring keys and crisp percussion. Here, PJ lays vivid verses detailing his come up in music and the many hurdles he faced, making for an emotive finale to the record.
A dynamic offering from Atlanta artist Lil PJ, Gift From God finds him experimenting with a variety of styles, mixing trap, hip-hop, and R&B influences in an engaging fashion. He holds his own throughout despite features from Atlanta heavyweights like Lil Keed and CEO Trayle, and shows promise in his songwriting and versatility.
