Renowned rapper, singer, musician, writer, producer, actor and comedian Donald Glover released music for the first time in two years on December 2, with his studio album “‘Awaken, My Love!'”. Glover, often referred to by his rap alias, Childish Gambino, has been known for his quirky style, eclectic background music and genre-defying sound from the start of his career with his self-released mixtape, “Sick Boi”. With this most recent album, listeners leave their experience having their expectations both met and exceeded.

From the cover art of this album to its serene melodies, this album radiates individuality and creativity. No matter what order one plays this track set in, each song naturally flows into the next. By utilizing James-Brown-esque vocalizations and 70’s era guitar solos, each song takes the listener back to an earlier, funkier time. The change of pace in this album from that of his second latest album, “Because the Internet,” is notable to say the least. The fast-paced, loud and bass-filled sounds of the earlier album have shifted to calmer tunes that glide from start to finish in this most recent installment.

This album also features several unique instrumental solos from instruments including, but not limited to, clarinets, flutes, guitars, trumpets and bottles. The sound of this album is both unprecedented and unforgettable. Each piece brings in its own originality and thusly, this collection of songs works as a genre of its own. Somehow, “Childish Gambino” managed to both create a new sound and leave each listener with a sense of nostalgia. Glover impressed the listening public with this long-awaited addition to his already extensive discography. The two years in between musical releases has proven to be time well spent.