Finally after all the song snippets on Snapchat and Instagram, all the rescheduling of release dates, Meek Mill has finally released DC4. As the name suggests DC4 is the latest installment of the Philadelphia rappers Dream Chasers album series, although unlike the previous releases, DC4 was released through all major music providers and streaming services.

The 29-year-old rapper has had a turbulent year, to say the least; from a very public feud with fellow rapper Drake (which many say Meek lost) to being under house arrest, and barred from releasing any music for a number of months, DC4 has been the rappers saving grace.  

Meek Mill’s DC4 has all you could ever want in a rap album; Meek has really developed his craft, combining the right mix of club bangers, street tracks, and songs about his lavish lifestyle. The album was just released quite abruptly, with no mainstream planned promotional, which may impact initial sales, with first-week sales figures around 70-75k (which includes both streaming and paid download).   

First track "On The Regular", sees Meek Mill ooze arrogance; rapping about being number one in Philadelphia, also how he was raised in the streets, beating the odds to become one of hip-hops most highly regarded MC’s. The track also references Meek Mill’s recent court dealings. "On The Regular" is an extremely strong opening track, with a mix of high energy, and Meek’s fast paced style of rap. "Blessed Up" is the second track, which highlights a more thankful side to the Philadelphia rapper, this is another high energy track, which is produced by newcomer “Sound M.O.B” shows Meek Mill crediting religion for his success within music.

One of the most talked about tracks on the album is “Litty” which features R&B sensation Tory Lanez. Many people say Tory Lanez was the major standout within the song (more so than Meek Mill); Lanez delivered his usual raspy vocal tones and even manages to insult his Canadian rival, Drake. Meek Mill brings a more urban edge to the track, with his style of rap, and lyrical content based around handling issues in the streets. The only critique of this track is Tory Lanez takes up a larger percentage of the song, so the listener hears more of the feature than the main artist.

A personal highlight on DC4 is the track “Shine”. One of the more serious tracks on the album, “Shine” sees Meek Mill deliver a sense of vulnerability. Tracks like these are why a lot of people relate to Meek Mill, the classic rags to riches story from the situations he’s been involved in; to the immense wealth that Meek’s accumulated over the years.

I think the release of DC4 put Meek Mill back on the map, people are excited about his new material and unlike his previous releases, DC4 seems to feature a lot of mainstream collaborations. Unfortunately, the recognition this album should receive is not reflected in overall album sales.