Bewilderment and excitement were parceled out in equal doses as LaRussell teamed up with Hit-Boy for *RENT DUE*. Hit-Boy crafted the perfect West Coast soundscape, filled with bouncy synths, slapping drums, and creeping piano riffs, providing an ideal backdrop for LaRussell’s California musings. The collaboration produced tracks that would make even the most hardened Compton legends take notice, showcasing LaRussell’s growing stature as a Bay Area voice to be reckoned with.
A standout track from LaRussell’s 2023 LP *MOTION*, “Pops For President,” offers insight into the themes of *RENT DUE*. In the song, LaRussell raps, “I pledge allegiance to my n-ggas and my mama/ My president was my daddy but not Obama,” highlighting his deep family ties. *RENT DUE* continues this trend, with LaRussell paying homage to those who helped him rise from the mud to his current position. Tracks like “LEAD ME TO THE WATER” and “ETHICS” showcase his ability to blend personal anecdotes with vivid imagery, all while riding over Hit-Boy’s masterful production. The bass-heavy, top-down cruise-ready beats make it clear that LaRussell brought his A-game for this project.
The single “ANOTHER ONE,” with production assistance from Big Hit, encapsulates the West Coast magic of the album. LaRussell’s flow is sharp, reminiscent of peers like Remble and the late Drakeo The Ruler. He raps, “Ain’t gotta ask me where I’m from, you hear the beat, The West is back,” confidently declaring his roots and the strength of the project. *RENT DUE* is a testament to LaRussell’s ability to craft thematic projects while bringing something fresh to the table, marking it as one of the strongest entries in his already impressive discography.