Conway the Machine's new album 'You Can't Kill God With Bullets' showcases resilience, blending gritty street tales with introspection. Features Alchemist, G Herbo, Roc Marciano.
In an industry often criticized for a lack of lyrical sharpness, Conway the Machine defies expectations with his relentless dedication to classic, hard-hitting hip-hop. The Buffalo native’s latest offering, You Can’t Kill God With Bullets, serves as a testament to his perseverance and refusal to be underestimated.
Conway’s journey hasn’t been conventional or easy. Rising from a city not typically associated with hip-hop’s glamour, he has managed to carve a niche for himself, keeping true to his roots while pushing the boundaries of his artistic expression. With the release of his new album, Conway offers a blend of introspection and aggression, ensuring his audience that his position in the industry is well-earned.
You Can’t Kill God With Bullets is an apt title, reflective of Conway’s personal history and his near-death experiences, including being shot in the head twice. This real-life trauma is transformed into a symbolic message of resilience and indestructibility, themes that permeate the album’s 18 tracks.
The album isn’t just a reiteration of old sounds but is an evolution of Conway’s style. While it retains the gritty realism and street narrative his fans clamor for, it also introduces more nuanced elements of instrumentation and thematic complexity, showcasing a matured artist who still has the bars to captivate. The project’s highlights include collaborations with celebrated producers and artists, providing a diverse listening experience while maintaining unity in theme and purpose.
Highlights from the album include tracks with stalwarts like The Alchemist and Daringer, who continue to mold the sound of Griselda Records. Tracks like “Nu Devils,” featuring G Herbo, provide a seamless marriage of styles that respect the roots of both artists while venturing into unexplored territories. Conway recounts the organic nature in which these collaborations arise, often from simple conversations or shared sentiments.
Conway’s association with production maestro Alchemist has been a significant element in his work. The camaraderie between the two extends beyond mere beats, pushing Conway’s boundaries and experimenting with his delivery and lyrical content. Alchemist’s influence, tailored to each artist he works with, provides a unique backdrop that complements Conway’s gritty narration.
The influence of Griselda’s vibrant roster is evident throughout the album, and Daringer, often compared to the RZA of Griselda, remains pivotal. The chemistry between these artists continues to spark innovation and underscores the collective’s commitment to revitalizing the essence of hip-hop.
Collaborations on the album also include unexpected run-ins with artists like Roc Marciano, bringing full circle Conway’s journey since his initial days in the industry. Dua Lipa, a surprising mention in “Parisian Nights,” came about from an actual chance meeting, illustrating the cross-genre impact and reach Conway’s music has achieved.
Conway the Machine is not just focused on music. He has plans to expand into other ventures, with a podcast titled Talking Sideways and aspirations in film and television on the horizon. Despite his success, Conway emphasizes the importance of maintaining authenticity and connection with his audience, evident in both his music and his broader career aspirations.
As fans embrace You Can’t Kill God With Bullets, it solidifies Conway’s place as a beacon of lyrical prowess and artistic integrity. His journey from the streets of Buffalo to becoming a respected name in hip-hop not only inspires but reminds us that true artistry cannot be stifled.
