Artist: Lil Tecca

Album Title: PLAN A

Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap

Release Date: Sept. 20, 2024

Rating: B+

With the release of his fourth studio album “TEC” in 2023, Lil Tecca has become a notable name in the modern music industry. Following the success of hit songs like “500 lbs,” Tecca has continued to work on his sound, releasing the album “PLAN A” in September of 2024. Exploring themes like the challenges of fame and complexity of relationships, this album serves as a pivotal mark in his career, showcasing his growth and continued success.

“While I enjoyed a lot of the tracks on PLAN A, I feel like some of the songs blend together a bit. Still, it’s clear that Lil Tecca is trying to push himself artistically, which is nice to see,” senior Sebastian Lopez said.

Track 1: TASTE

Rating: B+

“TASTE” sets the stage for the album, opening it with a lively, rhythmic beat that pulls listeners in instantly. The production is crisp, characterized by bouncy trap drums and atmospheric synths that create a laid-back but confident vibe. Lil Tecca’s vocals glide over the beat effortlessly, delivering catchy, melodic hooks that have become his trademark. Tecca hooks listeners with funky production and his signature melodic delivery, signaling that while Tecca might stick to familiar subject matter, he’s focused on refining his familiar sound.

Track 2: BAD TIME

Rating: A-

Arguably the largest hit of the album already, “BAD TIME” is one of the more introspective tracks on “PLAN A”. Dealing with similar subject matter to the rest of the album, Tecca dives deeper into some of his struggles with fame and wealth, such as dealing with the greed of those who surround him. The production is mellow, featuring spacey synths and subtle drum patterns that allow his vocals to take center stage. While having an incredibly catchy chorus, the strength of the track comes from its divergence from the rest of the album, allowing listeners to experience variety right from the start.

“I think Tecca did a great job with bringing more energy into the album, Even if he might not be the first one on my playlist, you can’t deny that he has bangers on each of his projects,” senior Carlos Portillo said.

Track 4: I CAN’T LET GO

Rating: A

One of album’s standout moments is the Don Toliver collaboration, “I CAN’T LET GO.” The chemistry between the two artists is undeniable, with Tecca’s melodic flow perfectly complementing Toliver’s raspy, soulful vocals. The production stands out, combining trap beats with smooth R&B elements, creating a vibe that’s both moody and atmospheric. Handled by some of the best in the industry, including Internet Money’s Rio Leyva and Taz Taylor, the unique sound of the track is a highlight across the album. Lyrically, the song touches on emotional themes of love and heartbreak, making it one of the more vulnerable moments on the album. Don Toliver’s presence elevates the track, adding a richness and depth that makes this collaboration feel special.

“I really loved his collaboration with Don Toliver and I think that they really compliment each other very well. Both of them are amazing artists, and I would love to see them collaborate more in the future,” senior Alyssa Acosta said.

Track 10: SELF2SELF

Rating: B

While not a stand-out track in comparison to other songs on the album, “SELF2SELF” perfectly embodies the spirit of “PLAN A” as a project. Tecca has referred to this album as a reflection of his life plan—”PLAN A” is his only option, a declaration of his determination to succeed without a backup plan. This track diverges from the more energetic vibes of other songs on the album, as seen in Tecca’s slower delivery and deeper voice while singing in “SELF2SELF”. The track symbolizes his main message on the project, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of external pressures.

“PLAN A is an enjoyable listen, even if it doesn’t quite hit the highs of his earlier work. I like how Tecca is branching out and trying new things, which gives the album some freshness,” senior Daniel Diaz said.

Overall, Lil Tecca has delivered a solid project that proves he is more than just a viral sensation. While PLAN A may not have a song that reaches the level of his breakout track “Ransom,” it proves that Tecca has definitely evolved to be more than just a one-hit-wonder. It is an enjoyable listen that solidifies his place in the hip-hop scene as both a talented rapper and producer.