Conway the Machine elevates his raw, authentic hip-hop with the new album 'You Can't Kill God with Bullets,' showcasing lyrical mastery and remarkable resilience.
In an era where many lament the waning of New York’s lyrical prowess, Buffalo’s own Conway the Machine remains a beacon of authenticity and unparalleled rhyme. With the recent release of his album, You Can’t Kill God with Bullets, Conway demonstrates once again why he’s a crucial player in today’s hip-hop arena.
Conway, officially known as Demond Price, has consistently been at the forefront of hip hop’s authentic sound, blending raw street narratives with intricate lyrical delivery. Hailing from Buffalo, New York, he emerged alongside his Griselda cohorts, Westside Gunn and Benny The Butcher, to reinvigorate the gritty essence of East Coast rap. While the mainstream often veers towards polished productions and catchy hooks, Conway has remained committed to the raw, unvarnished essence of rap.
The album title, You Can’t Kill God with Bullets, is at once compelling and revealing, hinting at Conway’s personal resilience. In a candid conversation with VIBE, Conway explained that the title is a nod to his near-death experience after being shot multiple times. It reflects not only his survival against odds but also his unyielding spirit as an artist.
You Can’t Kill God with Bullets spans 18 tracks, featuring a blend of seasoned collaborators and fresh narratives. Notably, the album showcases production contributions from heavyweight producers like Alchemist and Conductor Williams. Speaking about his rapport with Alchemist, Conway expressed admiration for the producer’s ability to push artistic boundaries, reflecting on how Alchemist’s tailored beats complement his style.
While tracks like “The Undying” and “Nu Devils” cement his position with their raw lyricism, tracks like “Diamonds” with Roc Marciano are a testament to his ability to merge with fellow lyrical titans. This collaboration marks a full-circle moment given their history, reminding fans of the deep roots and relational allegiances that strengthen the genre.
Adding to the album’s nuance is the unexpected nod to pop icon Dua Lipa on “Parisian Nights.” Conway relates a real-life meeting with Lipa in Paris, showcasing the global, cross-genre alliances that often occur behind hip-hop’s veil. These stories add layers to Conway’s already complex persona, illustrating his multifaceted presence within the music world.
With You Can’t Kill God with Bullets, Conway furthers his narrative, proving that depth, lyricism, and authenticity still thrive amidst contemporary sonic landscapes. His reflections on mortality, achievements despite adversities, and his continued dedication to hip hop’s craft position him as a vanguard of lyrical dexterity.
Looking forward, Conway seeks to expand his horizons beyond music by branching into podcasting with his series “Talking Sideways.” He’s also exploring acting and directing, which promises to tap into the emotive storytelling that he is renowned for in his music. Conway’s versatility in creativity ensures that while the world awaits more music, there’s much more to expect from the Buffalo emcee’s constantly evolving saga.
