Denzel Curry, the hit rapper and lyricist from Florida known for having a punchy delivery and intense style, has again returned this year with the deluxe edition of his summer mixtape, “King of the Mischievous South Vol. 2.” Two years since his last major record release, “Melt My Eyez See Your Future,” this album demonstrates just how much Curry has grown as an artist. This re-release adds four new tracks to an already stacked lineup, further solidifying the record as one of Curry’s best. This is demonstrated to a greater extent when looking at audience reception. With a 77 Critic Score and an 83 User Score on the popular music review platform Album of the Year, it is clear that this sequel to Curry’s 2012 mixtape “King of the Mischievous South Vol. 1” is nothing short of a masterpiece.

From the moment “ULTRA SHXT” kicks off the album, it’s evident that Curry is diving deep into his Southern roots. The track boasts a production that feels somehow both nostalgic and fresh, serving as a perfect background for his sharp and almost airy vocals. It’s a standout opener that is one of the album’s best, setting the tone for the rest of the project.

Despite the strong start, the next track, “SET IT,” follows up as a bit of a letdown, being one of the album’s weakest tracks and failing to reach the heights possible by Curry. The beat is gritty, and though Curry’s delivery is as aggressive as ever, the track lacks memorability and originality, sounding largely the same from start to finish.

One of the new additions to the tracklist, “ACT A DAMN FOOL,” is a clear highlight. The track demonstrates Curry at his best, effortlessly coasting along the beat with lyrics and flow that stick in your mind for days. It’s the kind of track that reminds you why he’s such an important figure in modern hip-hop. “BLACK FLAG FREESTYLE” is another high for Curry, offering a simple beat paired with Curry’s spitfire delivery. The simplicity and dumbed-down approach Curry takes adds to the track’s mesmerizing effect and memorability, and the feature from That Mexican OT is one of the album’s best, bringing an additional layer of intensity with his rapid-fire verses.

Another new track, “GOT ME GEEKED,” doesn’t make a significant impact and goes to show that even the greatest can sometimes miss. It is vastly less entertaining than other tracks and feels largely out of place, sounding immature and more pop than gritty southern hip-hop. While not as strong as other songs, it’s still a solid track that shows Curry’s versatility. “COLE

PIMP” offers a refreshing change of pace. The luxurious piano and string samples create a laid-back and dreamy atmosphere, and Ty Dolla $ign’s smooth vocals complement Curry’s verses perfectly. The track is one of the album’s best and is a sharp contrast in quality to “GOT ME GEEKED,” showing what a proper switch-up should sound like.

The following tracks are both new additions and stand out within the record. “P.O.P,” excels with its catchy hook and engaging production. Curry’s energy is palpable, and the track showcases his ability to craft songs that are both hard-hitting and easily accessible. “ANOTHA LIFE NITE” blends soft intensity with introspection, striking a balance that few artists can manage. The crackly record scratches instantly grab the listener’s attention and verses from Curry and the track’s feature, 454, are hypnotic.

“WISHLIST” is the album’s crown jewel. With thought-provoking lyrics about materialism and personal priorities, Curry delivers a powerful message without sacrificing his trademark intensity. The track’s rich production and sharp metaphors make it an unforgettable listen. “STILL IN THE PAINT” and “HOODLUMZ” close out the mixtape with solid performances. While they may not break new ground, they maintain the project’s cohesive sound and showcase Curry’s consistency.

Overall, the deluxe edition of ‘King of the Mischievous South Vol. 2’ is a triumph for Denzel Curry. The new songs not only enhance the mixtape but also highlight his ability to evolve while staying true to his roots. The project is a masterful blend of homage and innovation, paying respect to Southern hip-hop traditions while pushing the genre forward. Curry’s attention to detail in crafting the mixtape’s aesthetic is evident throughout. From the production choices to the carefully selected features, everything works together to create a greatly immersive experience. As a fan, it’s exciting to see Denzel Curry continue to grow and experiment with his sound. If ‘KING OF THE MISCHIEVOUS SOUTH’ is any indication, we have a lot to look forward to from one of hip-hop’s most promising talents.