by Big K.R.I.T.
Released October 27, 2017 via Multi Alumni / BMG
Reviewed October 27, 2022
Top tracks (based on community voting)
Subenstein (My Sub IV) (32%), Drinking Sessions (30%), Bury Me In Gold (28%)
As a torchbearer of the Dirty South sound, Big K.R.I.T. built his name off a string of impressive mixtapes and two solid albums prior to the release of his magnum opus, 4eva Is A Mighty Long Time. An ambitious and sprawling double album, 4EIAMLT marked the first independent release from K.R.I.T. and divides itself into two parts across nearly an hour and a half. With one disc representing the artist of Big K.R.I.T. and disc two a reflection of Justin Scott (his real name), it showcases two very distinct—but inevitably connected—sides of the man behind one of 2017’s best releases. The first 11 tracks start off by indulging the Southern flavor you’d expect from a set of songs that feature the likes of T.I., Bun B, Pimp C, and CeeLo Green. Truck-knocking, bass-heavy beats littered throughout mark a celebratory feel that see K.R.I.T. churn out banger after banger, paying homage and respect to those that paved the way along the way. Transitioning into the second half, starting with “Justin Scott,” is where we see 4EIAMLT fully pivot toward soulful introspection. Contrasting the boastful persona displayed in the first half, the remaining 45 minutes sees Justin Scott embracing the more spiritual and reflective sides of his personality. The bass-heavy, Dirty South style production is swapped out for more R&B, gospel, and blues-influenced production. Lyrically, “Mixed Messages,” “Keep The devil Off,” and “Price of Fame'' stand out as good representatives of the latter half’s narrative. Respectively, these tracks see Scott addressing and/or grappling with the image he portrays, staying true to his roots and his faith, and his complicated relationship with newfound fame and the unique problems it brings. Ultimately, 4EIAMLT is a beautifully self-aware, soulful, and multi-faceted offering that is well worth the runtime. – Dominick (9/10)
Dominick: 9/10 | Cam: 8.8/10 | Pax: 8.5/10 | Jared: 8.5/10 | DeVán: 8.5/10
