‘Psychodrama’ is the outstanding debut concept album from talented, London born rapper Dave. Released on the 8^th of March 2019, ‘Psychodrama’ caused huge controversy and shot straight to number one in the charts. At only 20 years old, Dave has delivered a bold, fearless and incredibly raw debut album.

The opening track ‘Psycho’ perfectly sets the mood for the entire album. Introduced by a therapist, this track sees Dave speak about his insecurities and struggles. It interestingly mimics the structure of a therapy session – which is the overall concept of the album. The first 3 minutes of the track are energetic and confident in terms of both beat and lyrics, but the upbeat feel of the track instantly changes when Dave speaks about suffering with “manic depression.” The impressive change in tempo and the introduction of a downbeat piano signifies a darker tone to the track. ‘Psycho’ could be seen to be a track of two parts, emulating Dave suffering from bipolar disorder.

‘Streatham’ and ‘Screwface Capital’ both discuss Dave’s upbringing in South London. “Teachers was givin’ man tests, same time the mandem were givin’ out testers” is a lyric from ‘Streatham’ and shows the juxtaposition of the choices he was faced with at a young age; get an education or sell drugs. Drugs are often referred to in rap music, but Dave approaches the topic from a completely different angle. Although choosing between an education and selling drugs is not a choice everyone is faced with, it is some people’s reality and this track really hammers that home. Similarly, ‘Screwface Capital’ makes you question your own lifestyle choices. Are materialistic items more important than family? Do I really need to go on another night out? Am I spending enough time with my loved ones? The message of this song is to not get wrapped up in the life of a big city as it can lead us to neglect the things that are most important.

Dave is a proud black man, so it comes as no surprise that one of the more thought-provoking songs on the album covers the controversial topic of racial and social inequality. ‘Black’ discusses his personal experience of being black in South London. It vividly depicts the struggles of being black, with the heavy beat of a drum highlighting each lyric. “Black is all I know, there ain’t a thing that I would change in it” is the final line of the track and solidifies just how proud he is of the colour of his skin. Today, it is crucial that songs like this exist to raise awareness of racism. Intelligently and excellently put together, ‘Black’ is easily one of the better tracks.

‘Purple Heart’ is the lightest of the 11 tracks and strays away from the dark topics that have previously been discussed. Instead, Dave addresses a love interest and uses metaphors to convey his affection. The slow tempo and light piano notes give this song a Weeknd/Drake vibe. At the end of the song, Dave’s therapist talks about the importance of him having someone in his life who he can trust – a positive amongst all the negatives.

The standout track on this album is an 11-minute masterpiece titled ‘Lesley’. Dave’s incredible talent of storytelling really shines through on this track, giving a harrowing account of an abusive relationship. It tells the story of a girl called Lesley who is suffering abuse at the hands of her boyfriend, Jason. The sudden tempo changes and introduction of heavier instruments on this track draw you in. You feel like you are there watching the incidents unfold and the increase in tempo and heavier beats alert you that something terrible is going to happen – but you’re listening to the track feeling helpless. “You see this time that I’m taking out to tell you the story is more than a song or track, it’s a message to a woman with a toxic man, I’m begging you to get support if you’re lost or trapped.” Domestic violence is often glamourised or joked about by others in the rap industry, but Dave is telling women that is it not okay be abused. ‘Lesley’ makes for tough listening but is a bold and powerful message to women to seek help if they’re a victim of domestic abuse.

Overall, ‘Psychodrama’ is a mind-blowing debut album. Tackling taboo subjects from a completely different angle, you get an emotionally raw insight into his life. Dave has produced one of the most thoughtful, gripping and bold albums of 2019 so far. At only 20 years old, he has a very bright future ahead of him – 5/5!