Childish Gambino - ‘Atavista’

15th May 2024

Childish Gambino's Atavista, released in May 2024, is a bold and reflective final album that showcases Donald Glover's continuous evolution as an artist. The album is a mix of neo-soul grooves, space-funk, and deeply philosophical lyricism. Glover’s collaboration with producer Ludwig Göransson is evident throughout the record, blending smooth, ambient instrumentals with intricate lyrical themes that invite listeners to contemplate life’s bigger questions.

Tracks like "Atavista" set the tone with hypnotic vocals and a laid-back flow that masks deeper reflections on existence and purpose. The album touches on existential musings and social commentary, wrapped in a sound that merges vulnerability with swagger. For instance, "Psilocybae (Millennial Love)" takes listeners on a sex-funk journey, while songs like "Final Church" provide stadium-worthy glam-rock energy. Glover’s ability to juxtapose introspective thoughts with infectious grooves makes the album both thought-provoking and endlessly listenable​.

Lyrically, Atavista challenges complacency, with tracks like "Human Sacrifice" and "Little Foot Big Foot" making sharp social critiques while retaining a sense of cool detachment. Glover doesn’t offer straightforward answers, but rather, he invites listeners to join him in pondering life's complexities​.

Overall, the album serves as a fitting send-off for an artist who has consistently pushed boundaries and made listeners think as much as dance​