Description
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Action Bronson, the multi-talented artist from Queens, New York, continues to captivate audiences with his eclectic mix of music, cooking, and charismatic personality. Known for his unique blend of hip-hop, culinary expertise, and larger-than-life persona, Bronson’s career has been anything but conventional. His latest album, “Crocodrillo Turbo,” released in 2022, showcases a renewed focus on his rap career, blending his trademark humor and vivid storytelling with a psychedelic, nature-inspired soundscape.
Bronson, born Ariyan Arslani, has always been a figure of authenticity. Half-Albanian and raised in Queens, his experiences with the local food culture and graffiti scene have heavily influenced his work. Over the past decade, Bronson has built a diverse empire, spanning music, vapes, clothing, and books on various topics, including his popular food show, “Fuck, That’s Delicious.” Despite his broad appeal and significant following, Bronson has never relied on mainstream radio hits, instead cultivating a dedicated cult following.
“Crocodrillo Turbo” represents a significant shift in Bronson’s musical journey. Unlike his previous works, which often felt like extensions of his broader brand, this album marks a return to his roots as a focused rapper. Collaborating with producers like The Alchemist, Roc Marciano, and Griselda’s Daringer, Bronson crafts a hallucinatory and adventurous sound. The album’s psychedelic beats, fuzzy guitar solos, and eclectic samples create a vibrant backdrop for his lyrical exploration of nature and self-reflection.
The album opens with “Hound Dog,” featuring a chaotic blend of roars, barks, and shattering glass. Bronson’s lyrics paint vivid, surreal images, such as “smoking drugs ass-naked, just a hat on” and “running a hundred miles in a downpour with six giraffes on my back.” Throughout the album, he raps from the perspective of various animals, adding a unique twist to his storytelling. On “Jaguar,” he embodies the agility and power of the big cat, while on “Jaws,” he graphically describes a predator’s attack.
Bronson’s ability to mix humor with introspection is evident on tracks like “Subzero,” where he addresses personal trauma and his political views. The album features guest appearances from longtime collaborators Meyhem Lauren and Hologram, as well as Roc Marciano and Conway the Machine, who seamlessly blend into Bronson’s imaginative world. Conway’s verse on “Tongpo” and Roc Marci’s contribution to “Zambezi” highlight the playful yet skillful lyricism that permeates the album.
Musically, “Crocodrillo Turbo” is a departure from Bronson’s previous projects, embracing a more psychedelic and experimental sound. The production team, including The Alchemist and Roc Marciano, provides a rich and dynamic soundscape that complements Bronson’s vivid storytelling. The album’s closer, “Storm of the Century,” stands out as a plaintive, drumless track featuring saxophone by Yung Mehico, offering a reflective and somber end to the wild journey.
Throughout “Crocodrillo Turbo,” Bronson balances his larger-than-life persona with moments of genuine introspection. His unique blend of humor, vivid imagery, and emotional depth make this album a standout in his discography. By embracing his multifaceted identity and pushing creative boundaries, Action Bronson continues to solidify his place as a singular force in the world of hip-hop and beyond.
