Album Review: “No Pressure” by Logic

By Jason Arline
Music Journalist

“No Pressure” is the sixth and final studio album by Maryland rapper Logic and follows the rapper’s announcement of retirement a week before.

The album is co-produced along with hip-hop legend No I.D and marks six years since Logic last collaborated with him on its predecessor, “Under Pressure.”

Within that time, Logic released four other albums, a soundtrack, six mixtapes and a book. Throughout Logic’s career, he’s collaborated with many different musicians, voice-actors, artists and other celebrities making his artistry diverse, especially from a hip-hop perspective.

From ‘90s boom-bap rap to trap music, Logics’ discography covers a wide range of the musical spectrum. Unfortunately, this diversity hasn’t always been well received by critics and music fans. Some believe that Logic has become more mainstream and that he has lost the sense of passion that is felt when you listen to “Under Pressure.” While these claims are still up for speculation, “No Pressure” provides a strong case against them.

“No Pressure” is a back-to-basics album where Logic returns to his roots of storytelling all while being a modernization of “Under Pressure.”

Throughout much of “No Pressure,” Logic and No I.D. leave small Easter-eggs for Rattpack fans. Thalia is a guide from “Under Pressure” who’s voice is identical to the voice of the guide on A Tribe Called Quest’s “Midnight Marauders.”

Logic uses samples and lines from his past music to make a highlight reel for his career on “No Pressure.”

Tracks like “Soul Food II” use the same sample chops as on “Under Pressure’s” “Soul Food,” but use them to deliver a more uplifting feeling for the listener. Elements like these help the album take the struggle and dedication you felt on “Under Pressure” and turn it into the joy and passion that Logic feels today.

While Logic does share his opinions on the current state of the police and racism, the album maintains the topic of celebratory bliss. On the album, Logic talks about how happy he is to be a father, his wife, how he’s finally enjoying his life and how he is thankful for those who are a part of it.

“No Pressure” feels like it comes from a place of content and happiness when compared to its predecessor, “Under Pressure.” The fourth track, “Celebration,” sets the tone for the album early with sped-up vocals samples and drums that are similar to Kanye West’s early production style.

When you listen to the album you can tell that West was a huge inspiration for “No Pressure,” especially on tracks like “Heard Em Say” which use similar drums to West’s “Good Morning.” In addition to West, other artists like Nujabes, RZA, and MF DOOM heavily influenced Logic’s production for the album. These influences are present both within the lyrical content as well as the musical arrangements on the album. Logic blends everything masterfully into the perfect retirement present for his fans.

“No Pressure” and “Under Pressure” act like bookends to the story of Logic. They show how much Logic has grown as an artist over the course of his career. From the everyday struggles of a Maryland rapper to the life of a celebrity father and respected musician, Logic used his passion for music to spread peace, love and positivity to his fans and the world.

While it is a shame to see such a talented musician drop the mic one last time, “No Pressure” leaves Logics fans with something amazing to remember him by and gives a happy end to an incredible story.

Featured image retrieved from “No Pressure” by Logic.