“The Big Day” is finally upon us.
Fans have been waiting for a debut album from Chance the Rapper ever since his first mixtape dropped in 2012, and he wasn’t ready to end that wait even once the release date finally arrived. Instead of dropping his album at midnight PST as is customary, he held the release back until the clock struck noon in Chicago on July 26th, a playful wink to his hometown and a move he was able to get away with because the wait for “The Big Day” was worth every extra hour.
It’s been just over three years since Chance released his Grammy-winning third mixtape, 2016’s “Coloring Book,” and he’s made sure to give us all a follow-up that delivers on the promise of that album and the mixtapes that came before it.
“The Big Day” is a fun-for-all-ages musical journey. It contains an impressive 22 tracks, including three skits, and boasts a substantial and diverse number of A-list features, with Justin Vernon (Bon Iver), Ben Gibbard (Death Cab for Cutie), MadeinTYO, DaBaby, John Legend, Ari Lennox, Francis and the Lights, Megan Thee Stallion, Gucci Mane, Nicki Minaj, and Shawn Mendez all making appearances.
As for a theme, Chance had one in mind for his big debut. In an interview with Zane Lowe, he said, “The whole album has been inspired by the day that I got married, and how I was dancing that day.”
Ultimately, Chance remains loyal to his familiar sing-songy style on his debut, with clever wordplay flowing throughout the work. The album’s mood is funky, upbeat, and nostalgic — think the vibe at a ‘90s wedding, which makes sense, given that Chance told Zane Lowe, “The whole album has been inspired by the day that I got married, and how I was dancing that day.”
Chance goes for smiles with cuts like album opener “All Day Long,” “Eternal” and “Found A Good One.” He flexes his “Acid Rap” muscles with “Hot Shower,” “Roo,” and “Handsome,” while highlighting his thoughtful side with the insightful “Do You Remember” and “5 Year Plan.” Ultimately, Chance’s ability to expertly blend these components with meticulous precision is what makes the album not just “Big,” but truly glorious.
Keith Hudak 