Released without warning,
Kevin Gates' 12-song mixtape
Only the Generals, Pt. 2 offers a sequel to the Louisiana rapper's 2019 EP
Only the Generals Gon Understand and ramps up the energy and aggression of its predecessor to new, impenetrable levels. As with
Only the Generals Gon Understand,
Only the Generals, Pt. 2 finds
Gates alone on the mic with no featured guests. Where production on the previous chapter veered more toward piano loops and moderate instrumentals, tracks like explosive opener "Yes Lawd" and "Big Steppah" are comprised of hard-hitting drums and massive bass hits, setting
Gates up with lots of room to unleash his relentless lyrical storms. The project was recorded in Puerto Rico, and the atmosphere and culture of the island seep into many of the songs. In particular, "Puerto Rico Love" and "Cartel Swag" reflect the warmth and vibrancy of the territory where the songs were created, offering a slightly mellower counterbalance to the assault of heavier tracks. ~ Fred Thomas