The Dean’s List drew me in immediately after I first heard them last summer. Upon my discovery, my belief in the crazy potential of this group hasn’t faded the slightest bit. We’ve kept an eye on them here on the K since the beginning, I couldn’t pass up reviewing their latest mix-tape, The Drive-In, now finally available. It lives up to the hype. It delivers. It inspires. Read while listening, and enjoy.
It starts with “The Dream”.
The aptly-named first track on the Drive-In invites us into the dream that has become The Dean’s list. Three college kids, up against the rest of them, turning a vision into a concrete, tangible reality. There is no clear-cut formula for success; one must take risks, and weave a distinct path. From their consistent, quality releases The Dean’s List has proven to be a serious competitor taking a refreshing new approach to hip-hop. The unique production of DJ Alex Mendoza and “Mik Beats” elevates the charismatic, highly recognizable “bounce” of MC, Sonny Shots’ voice in every production. I expect this album to propel them even further into the spotlight.
Their enthusiasm for their work is indisputable, as they guide us through a sequential series of moments, experiences and epiphanies throughout a typical day, start to finish. The Drive-In is like a feature-length film that paints a colorful picture of the makings of success.
Take notice of the refreshing lack of sampling on the tape, with the exception of a few select tracks. Various uniquely integrated sounds and ambitious flows are explored, while of course retaining certain DL idiosyncrasies we’ve grown to love. Though the tape isn’t made up of 17 “full-length tracks”, each song is committed to revealing The Dean’s List’s honest story of relatable young adults perfecting their craft. I appreciate the consistency of The DL that has now merged with new musical territory.
As a listener, I challenge you to find a moment in the tape that lacks complete dedication, focus and creativity. The Dean’s List has strived to craft a unique sound that resonates with the listener, and in my opinion they have succeeded. Below, I’ve featured some stand-out, full-length tracks that are true to The Dean’s List brand.
New and returning loyal Dean’s list fans: I encourage you to download the entire album.
Also, check out K2YL and La Vie – If we hadn’t featured them previously, they’d be on this feature!
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Where the journey begins. Inserts famous MLK Jr. line, followed by noises you’d hear in a mysterious “forest”–evolving into a brief, but optimistic introduction.
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“If I Die Young” by country group (who’d have thought!?) The Band Perry is the perfect themed sample for this track, spruced up with some classic DL beats. Although the guys like to live fast, with a dream this big who’d want to die young. One of my favorites.
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One of the more intense tracks on the tape – a steady beat throbs, pulsing along consistently with a strong focus on the DL’s vision. Picture yourself speeding along the freeway late at night, in a deeply focused state of mind. OnCue’s tough verse is a great addition for some variation in tone. To me, this is a track about realizing where you’re supposed to be in life, accepting that truth, and being ready to command your destiny (corny, but true).
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I love the concept of this interlude: A literal “toast” to the future, in Sonny’s apparently inebriated state. Despite his literal vision being hazy, the dream is all-the-while relentlessly crystal clear. The minimalist, symphonic beat is beautiful. As Sonny continues his “speech”, DJ Mendoza and Mik’s sporadic comments provide some comic relief.
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Sonny’s near-growls, more forceful flow and the dramatic instrumentals make for a powerful track. The desire to be successful, without straying too far from what inspired you in the first place and selling out is the message. It’s intense.
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Although the allusions to various planets (Mars, Venus, Pluto…) may seem a little silly, it works with the analogy and creates a crazily catchy track. This is one of the stand-out pop jams – and Dani Ummel’s voice seems effortless. Oh, and Sonny speaks french?
“The truth is I don’t really care how you shine cause I light up the sky”.
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A light, fun beat that instantly put a smile on my face. This is the track proceeding “K2YL”, serving as a sweeter appetizer. Sit with your closest friends, pour a drink and turn this one on. Cheers.
Support by purchasing the album on iTunes and
stay updated on exciting Dean’s List projects through Facebook and the official It’s The Dean’s List website!
Fucking amazing album. Is it me or is Sonny a better version of Wiz Khalifa?
Good stuff good stuff, but the download link to Dear Professor leads to Burn it All.
I fixed it, thanks for the heads up!
DITTO
Amazing album! Well written review too!
No need to make mountains out of molehills.
Exactly what I thought!
The Dean’s list has some amazing stuff. Invigilators have a great track with Sonny called “Education” that any Dean’s List fan should check out. I haven’t seen it on here but maybe i just havent looked hard enough.
I personally think the dean’s list is one of the best groups i’ve ever heard. Also i think Frank is a raging homosexual.