by Tim Buck (@aidmoozic)
The city of Detroit continues to be a fertile ground for talent in 2024. Mello Music Group know the area well, with the likes of Chris Orrick, Apollo Brown, and Guilty Simpson all sharing history with the label. It's no surprise then, that we see one of the city’s most prolific battle emcees also enrolled for his latest LP release. A true veteran of the scene, Marv Won has remained competent throughout several eras. Perhaps a legend based on constancy, but still competitive enough to be a threat, I'm Fine, Thanks for Asking is a strong, self-produced work that finally lays all cards on the table.
Lead single "Good Thangs" features a contribution from fellow Detroiter Quelle Chris, evoking musical depth with its dreamy piano trills and slick bass grooves. Marv is at his most introspective; extolling the virtues of appreciating life, but also disclosing his experiences with the psychological downward spiral induced by negative thinking. Tucked amongst the lyrics are memorable lines such as "Living in my head in small confines, scared I'll be a body that they come find" and "Found myself becoming a person I'm despising, pouring quicksand instead of working on my rising". This kind of fearless self-inventory lies in stark contrast to the bragging that many contemporary rappers gravitate towards.
"Nosey,” featuring Big Pooh, contains a subject matter that may hit home for those who grew up in low-income households; Marv tell us about how his mother's omniscience used to make it impossible to stash large sums of illegal earnings. It's also a reminder of how easily we can interpret other's actions to be an invasion of our privacy, even when care is the driving force. By exploring sensitive, relatable topics through lyrical candidness, Marv uses his album as an opportunity to peel back the layers so we can get to know him better than ever before.
"Roc Nation Brunch" features Philly emcee Freeway, and immediately Marv sets the scene: "I’m trying to go to the Roc Nation brunch, J. Cole on the bar, Rihanna facing a blunt, linen and limousines that came with the bump, where big deals get made without saying too much". The picture is vivid and all-encompassing; an event set to be the most high-profile of pageants. Marv dresses for the occasion, but is symbolising resilience and pride amoungst the ostentation by narrating his journey from street rap battles to celebrity status.
Never was there a moment's hesitation by the Detroit rapper when tackling any subject on what is probably his strongest release to date. He openly weaves tales of struggle and conquest together in a sprightly unison - the way only a veteran of his craft would. His flows remain unapologetically raw, and he continues to showcase a well-honed talent for immersive storytelling.