Before You Go, the first solo full-length from Blxst, follows the rapper/singer's success with the gold single "Chosen" and the Def Jam-distributed sequel to his and Bino Rideaux's Sixtape. The Los Angeles native tends to either produce or co-produce the majority of the tracks on each of his projects. This time, he handles only co-production on just a handful of the cuts, delegating the duties to an array of collaborators who include ThaRealCStylez and ThaRealJFKBeatz, Mike Keys, J Mo, and Sevn Thomas. The material overall is consequently a little smoother and glossier compared to Blxst's 2020 EP No Love Lost. Violinist Grandmaster Vic adds another layer of musicality, even soloing on "Pick Your Poison." These changes sound like natural developments instead of artistic compromise. Blxst elevates his writing with a little more depth, detail, and subtle wordplay, and he keeps it straightforward, never pandering, whether examining himself or working through relationship matters in a conversational manner. The meeting with Rick Ross on "Couldn't Wait for It" is sensibly both aspirational and soulful, while the appearances from Arin Ray and Zacari are also well-placed. Promoted as a mixtape, Before You Go is of greater significance. ~ Andy Kellman, Rovi

1		Sky Lounge Music
2		Never Was Wrong
3		About You
4		Fake Love in LA
5		Pick Your Poison
6		Couldn't Wait for It
7		Still OMW
8		Keep Comin' Back
9		Sometimes
10		Every Good Girl
11		Be Forreal
12		Talk to Me Nicely
13		Let It Be Known

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