I originally had this project rated lower from when I first heard it a long time ago. Checking out Bleek’s discography after hearing his new 2025 album, I decided to give this one a revisit which is the only Bleek album I had previously heard. While the production here is more polished, leaning a little more pop than his previous work, it’s clear that each album became increasingly radio-friendly. For a hop hip head, I think his last album, 'M.A.D.E.', has a better balance.
The album opens strong with the title track. It hits hard and sets the right tone. But then we get to the overrated 'Dear Summer', where I kept waiting for Bleek to drop a verse. It never comes and is just a solo Jay-Z song. Why is it on Bleek’s album? It feels like the inverse of what usually happens. Jay gets the shine instead of lending it.
Next, 'Like That' is a pretty standard weak Swizz Beatz joint, forgettable and flat. Then the pop-rap vibe ramps up with 'Infatuated' and the slightly better 'The One' featuring a young Rihanna, which shows some improvement.
'First, Last and Only', with M.O.P., is a major highlight. M.O.P. completely steal the show. It sounds more like one of their tracks though than Bleek’s. That was an issue across his albums where features would be more memorable, largely because Bleek lacks a truly distinctive voice or commanding presence on the mic, but I'll touch on this point again later.
Production throughout is a mixed bag but more good than bad. 'Get Low' has nice bounce, but it’s lyrically tedious. Same goes for 'Oh Baby'. However, then 9th Wonder steps in and elevates things. His layered, soulful production on 'Smoke the Pain Away' and 'Alright' gives Bleek a more introspective and mature sound, and both are among the best tracks on the album.
'Hater Free' has decent production too, but the concept and verses don’t bring much to the table, and it lacks the hook needed to save it. Thankfully, the album closes strongly with 'All About Me' and 'Straight Path', both of which bring back the grit and soul.
In a way, the album’s structure mirrors Jay-Z’s 'The Blueprint'. There are some average pop moments early on, but a stronger, more introspective, and soulful finish. Now, back to the point I mentioned earlier—while Bleek isn’t the most unique or distinctive rapper, some of the strongest moments on '534', as with his previous albums, come when he’s on his own. Despite the presence of high-profile features, he proves he doesn’t always need them to hold his ground.
All in all, this album features some of Bleek’s best work and probably has the most top-tier tracks of any of his releases. That said, it’s a bit more hit-and-miss compared to his previous effort and his latest, 'APT 3D', which are both more consistent overall. Still, it’s definitely better than I originally gave it credit for.
Beats: ★★★☆
Rapping/Bars: ★★★☆
Hooks: ★★★
Best Tracks: 534, First Last and Only, Smoke the Pain Away, Alright, All About Me
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