Chris Orrick is the very antithesis of a stereotypical rapper. He’s white, a former factory worker Michigan and his lifestyle screams “working class.” There are no fancy cars, big booty video girls, bottles of expensive liquor, exclusive club appearances, or fat stacks of cash.
Those individuals who are in tune with underground Hip Hop know such a persona is nothing new. What he is, without a fraction of a doubt, is honest. Formerly known as Red Pill, Orrick made the switch to his government moniker, which seems to be an appropriate move for someone who shuns the smoke and mirrors. His latest album, Portraits, gives a very personal glance into the inner workings of who Chris Orrick actually is.
When the canvas dries, it’s clear Portraits wasn’t painted to be a party. It doesn’t contain the feel-good summer tune for your next seasonal road trip, and often, the deep emotions trump the musicianship. But it might make someone who is stuck in a dark place feel less alone. It’s a relatable project for those living the check-to-check, clock-punching, sporadically unemployed, or those suffering from mental illness, or fighting the general struggle.
Chalk it up as a necessary dose of realistic humanity.
| 1 | Self-portrait |
| 2 | Stories |
| 3 | Design flaw |
| 4 | The Rubric |
| 5 | Lazy Buddies |
| 6 | Escape Plan |
| 7 | Anywhere Insread |
| 8 | Bottom Feeders |
| 9 | Barfly |
| 10 | Jealous Of The Sun |
| 11 | Mom |
| 12 | What Happens Next? |
