Playboi Carti’s long-anticipated third studio album, MUSIC, released on March 14, 2025, stands as a mark of rebellious, chaotic, and ambitious behavior all put into one project that both challenges and rewards listeners. Spanning 30 tracks over 77 minutes, the album showcases Carti’s evolution from his earlier works, embracing a more experimental approach that blends trap, EDM, and rage-rap elements. His vocal performances are notably diverse, ranging from his signature “baby voice” to his newer deeper, raspier tones, creating a dynamic and unpredictable listening experience. Critics have noted this range, with Rolling Stone highlighting how Carti shifts his tone dramatically across tracks, often sounding like a completely different person, leaving fans with all different kinds of reactions. 

The album features a diverse roster of high-profile collaborations, including Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Travis Scott, and Future. While some guest appearances, like The Weeknd’s on “Rather Lie,” add depth and variety to the overall sound of the album, others have been met with mixed reactions. Pitchfork described the guest contributions as ineffective, suggesting that the album’s strength lies more in Carti’s solo performances.  Despite the unexpected lineup, the album’s cohesion has been a source of conversation among critics. The Guardian acknowledged the album’s ambitious approach to rap music as a whole, but noted that some tracks feel less impactful, affecting the overall flow. 

Lyrically, MUSIC dives into themes of hedonism, bravado, and introspection. Notable lyrics on numerous songs make many songs memorable and add replay value to them. However, some critics have pointed out that the album’s lyrical content can be inconsistent and sounds like Carti is just saying things to add bulk to some songs, with Slant Magazine describing it as “incomprehensible” at times.  Despite this, Carti’s emphasis on mood and atmosphere over traditional lyricism contributes to the album’s unique character, making a spectrum of diverse and one-of-one tracks.

In summary, MUSIC is a testament to Playboi Carti’s willingness to push boundaries and defy social expectations. While its length and experimental nature may not appeal to all listeners, the album offers a bold and immersive experience that reflects Carti’s artistic growth and most definitely makes his mark in the rap industry. As he continues to evolve, MUSIC solidifies his position as a trailblazer in contemporary hip-hop, unafraid to explore new sonic landscapes and challenge the boundaries of the current socially accepted rap music.