In August 2018, Travis Scott released his long awaited third studio album, ‘Astroworld,’ the sequel to Scott’s debut album, Rodeo. After the underwhelming response to Birds In The Trap Sing McKnight, and Huncho Jack, did the Houston native satisfy with ‘Astroworld?’

Travis isn’t an artist that fans look to for lyrical prowess, instead the 26-year-old rapper has gained his audience of devoted fans due to his experimental, and sonically pleasing brand of music, that he seamlessly introduced with his debut album, Rodeo. 

While there was a theme to Rodeo, which five years after its release is known as a fan favourite, it’s clear that the intended theme of Astroworld was for it to be sonically pleasing. Like the theme park itself, every song is a ride. Whether it’s the impulsive beat switches on tracks such as the hit single, ‘SICKO MODE,’ or periods in the instrumentals that transition as if you were entering a new ride at Astroworld, Travis never fails to keep his listeners engagement. 

Adding to the incredible sound of Astroworld, Travis’ third studio album is packed with features. Big names such as The Weeknd, Drake, Frank Ocean and 21 Savage appear on the project, adding their artistic  styles which seamlessly suit the album, and don’t feel out of place. Whilst there are many great features on the project, any album with over 10 features is due to have some underwhelming performances. This is seen on Astroworld through the song, ‘Yosemite,’ which features Georgia artist, Gunna and Canadian artist, Nav. While Gunna gives a solid performance on the hook, Nav’s verse at the end of the song marks the most pointless feature on the project, helping Yosemite to be seen as one of the weak points through the albums duration. 

Whilst we get many songs that explore the same generic subject matter that are primarily made for sonic value, Astroworld presents a more personal side of Travis that fans have never seen before. Through tracks such as, ‘R.I.P. SCREW,’ a song where Travis pays homage to the deceased Houston hip-hop legend, DJ Screw, who died of a suspected lean overdose in 2000, and ‘STOP TRYING TO BE GOD,’ a beautiful song about staying true to your roots and not developing a “God complex,” we see Travis diving into a lane of mind provoking ideas. The 17 track album finishes on a very introspective note. This is seen on the track, ‘HOUSTONFORNICATION,’ which ultimately is a song where Travis expresses that he needs a “vacation” – him needing a break due to everything happening in his intense lifestyle. This introspective side of Travis is also seen in great prevalence on the final track, ‘COFFEE BEAN,’ which makes for one of Travis’ most personal songs he has released to date. The song covers the topic of his relationship with his girlfriend and baby mother, Kylie Jenner. Discussing the backlash and controversy that came as a result of their relationship, and details many of his inner fears and insecurities, making for not only the most vulnerable track on the album, but in his whole discography. 

Astroworld makes for a very enjoyable listen. With a near one hour run time, Travis never fails to entertain due to his incredible production, amazing vocals and the occasional introspective verse. Every song feels like you’re on a constant ride at the amusement park, with smooth transitions in between each track, which ultimately enhances the experience and makes the listener feel like they’re experiencing the park for one last time. Astroworld delivered a great listening experience, and a successful follow up to the highly praised, Rodeo. 

Rating: 8.2/10

Written by Sam Dehnert