Smino Noir Zip [updated] -
, you have to lean into its "organized chaos" and silky, quirky vibes. The album is a celebrate-the-growth project, trading the broody mood of his debut, , for a playful, experimental soundscape. Option 1: The "Vibe Check" Post (Instagram/Threads) "Still lost in the frequency of
In the landscape of modern hip-hop, few artists possess a sonic identity as distinct and elastic as Smino [1, 2]. Born Christopher Smith Jr. in St. Louis, Missouri [2], the rapper, singer, and songwriter has spent years carving out a unique lane that defies easy categorization. While his 2017 debut album, blkswn , introduced the world to his signature blend of neo-soul, funk, and rapid-fire Midwest rap [1, 3], it was his sophomore album, NOIR , that solidified his status as a musical visionary [1].
In addition to Monte Booker and Smino himself, production credits include Sango , THEMpeople , Phoelix , Krs. , Al B Smoov , and Da-P . Where to Listen or Purchase smino noir zip
"Wild Irish Roses," "L.M.F.," "KLINK," and "Z4L"
However, the album also expanded Smino's sonic palette by pulling in an elite lineup of co-producers and guest artists. Collaborators Bari, Jay2, Dreezy, Valee, Ravyn Lenae Production Team , you have to lean into its "organized
The project proved that a rap album could be technically precise while remaining incredibly fun, soulful, and radio-friendly. It established Smino not just as a rapper, but as a vocal architect capable of using his voice as a literal instrument.
However, where blkswn was an exploration of vulnerability and roots, NOIR was a declaration of confidence, success, and artistic freedom [1]. The title itself, the French word for "black," serves as a multi-layered thesis statement. It is a direct nod to Black culture, Black joy, and Black love, framed through a lens of cinematic noir mystery and late-night, smoky studio sessions. Smino himself described the album as an exercise in high energy, designed specifically for his live shows and for fans who wanted to dance, flex, and feel good. Production and the Monte Booker Synergy Born Christopher Smith Jr
When St. Louis-born artist Smino dropped his sophomore album, NOIR , in late 2018, he didn’t just release a collection of songs; he created a vibrant, bustling universe. Following the massive acclaim of his debut, blkswn , NOIR solidified Smino’s reputation as one of modern music's most eccentric and talented fusion artists. Blending hip-hop, R&B, funk, and neo-soul, the album is a 18-track sonic journey that showcases his unique ability to turn his voice into an instrument.
The album features 18 tracks, led by singles "L.M.F.", "KLINK", and "Z4L". Track Name Primary Producers Smino, THEMpeople Monte Booker TEQUILA MOCKINGBIRD Krs, J.L.L., deDunamis Monte Booker SUMMER SALT Monte Booker Bari, Jay2 Monte Booker Monte Booker WE GOT THE BISCUITS Monte Booker Sango, Chris McClenney Al B Smoov LOW DOWN DERRTY BLUES Monte Booker Monte Booker Monte Booker KRUSHED ICE Ravyn Lenae Monte Booker, Da-P Source: