Review

This Is What I Mean Stormzy

The third outing from Stormzy is a subtle, soft, and intimate exploration of introspection and self-realisation that forefronts the rapper's singing voice in a way that we haven’t heard before. Tackling self-identity, his obligations as a role model, and his faith, ‘This Is What I Mean’ is a wide ranging collection that finds Stormzy more open and vulnerable than ever before. Centring the album are a trio of tracks that showcase Stormzy’s expanded range and musical maturity. First ‘My Presidents Are Black’ is an upbeat, witty, politically astute flex that is followed by a track given over to guest collaborator Sampha on ‘Sampha’s Plea’. Switching from self-confidence to a showcase for another voice is a deft move that brings the tempo down, without feeling like an abrupt turn, before Stormzy slows things down further on the hymnal piano-piece, ‘Holy Spirit’. An unexpectedly low-key affair, ‘This Is What I Mean’ captures a new, captivating side to Stormzy’s artistry.

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