Gunna’s ‘One of Wun’ arrives with the weight of expectation, not just as a follow-up to his critically acclaimed ‘a Gift & a Curse,’ but as another statement from an artist navigating immense public scrutiny. Released in 2024, the album is a testament to Gunna’s resilience and his continued evolution within the trap soundscape he helped popularize. It’s a sprawling 20-track journey that consolidates his signature melodic flow while subtly pushing the boundaries of his lyrical introspection.
The production on ‘One of Wun’ is a clear highlight, a meticulously crafted tapestry of smooth, ethereal beats that perfectly complement Gunna’s laid-back delivery. Longtime collaborators like Turbo and Omar Grand contribute to a cohesive sonic palette that ranges from bouncy club anthems to more somber, introspective soundscapes. Tracks like ‘Whatsapp (Wassam)’ and ‘Certified Chef’ boast infectious basslines and crisp percussion, designed for immediate replayability. The album largely maintains a mid-tempo groove, allowing Gunna’s ‘slithery’ flow to glide effortlessly over the instrumentals. There’s a noticeable maturity in the production choices, leaning into richer textures and more complex arrangements than some of his earlier work.
Lyrically, ‘One of Wun’ finds Gunna in a contemplative, yet defiant, mood. While he still indulges in the opulent flexes synonymous with his brand (‘On One Tonight,’ ‘Collage’), there’s an undeniable undercurrent of reflection on his recent legal challenges and public perception. He addresses the loyalty, betrayal, and isolation he faced, albeit often in a guarded, understated manner. Songs like ‘Still of the Night’ hint at the emotional toll, while ‘Prada Dem’ (featuring Offset) touches on the complexities of navigating fame and relationships in the industry. It’s not a tell-all memoir, but rather a series of vignettes that offer glimpses into his mindset without sacrificing his enigmatic allure. His wordplay remains largely consistent, relying on cadence and repetition for impact rather than intricate metaphors, which suits his stylistic niche.
Gunna’s vocal performance remains distinct. His hushed, almost whispered delivery is instantly recognizable, and he skillfully employs Auto-Tune not as a crutch, but as an expressive tool to enhance melodies. He demonstrates versatility, shifting between laid-back crooning and more assertive declarations, particularly on tracks where he needs to emphasize his point. The collaborations are well-chosen, with Offset delivering a solid verse on ‘Prada Dem’ and Gunna holding his own alongside the late Young Thug on ‘Bottom,’ a track that serves as a poignant reminder of their undeniable chemistry.
Despite its many strengths, ‘One of Wun’ isn’t without its minor flaws. At 20 tracks, the album occasionally suffers from a slight sense of repetition, both in themes and sonic approach. While consistency is often a virtue, a few tracks blend into the background, preventing the album from maintaining peak momentum throughout its entire run. Some listeners might crave more direct emotional vulnerability or lyrical complexity, but Gunna largely sticks to the formula that has proven successful for him, refining rather than reinventing.
Overall, ‘One of Wun’ solidifies Gunna’s position as a prominent voice in contemporary trap. It’s an album that showcases his refined artistry, marked by impeccable production and a confident, albeit subtly reflective, lyrical stance. It’s a cohesive and enjoyable listen that manages to feel both familiar and fresh, proving that Gunna still has plenty to say, even when speaking in hushed tones. It’s a strong effort that builds upon his recent successes and reaffirms his unique contribution to the genre.
Overall Rating: 4.0 out of 5