Denzel Curry is back at it again. The Florida rapper returns with Strictly 4 The Scythe, a studio album created together with his own collective, The Scythe. Consisting of A$AP Ferg, BKTheRula, TiaCorine and Key Nyata, the group delivers an explosive debut project that leans heavily into the raw energy of Southern rap.
The album immediately establishes its identity. Strictly 4 The Scythe opens with a distinctly Southern sound. Given Curry’s well-known admiration for Memphis rap and groups like Three 6 Mafia, this influence is hardly surprising. The production, largely handled by the Working on Dying collective, is loud, gritty and distorted, yet still balanced. Over these beats, the rappers deliver aggressive choruses while sliding into smoother verses that flow effortlessly across the production.
As a debut project, the album clearly aims to introduce the collective’s identity. The group delivers confident, independent lyrics that emphasize individuality within the group dynamic. At just eight tracks and roughly thirty minutes long, the project is relatively short, but the collective makes effective use of the limited time.
The Memphis influence remains especially present in the first half of the album. Tracks like ‘LIT EFFECT’ and ‘PHONY’ lean heavily into that classic gritty Southern aesthetic. As the album progresses, however, the sound begins to evolve. Later tracks gradually introduce a more modern trap sound, blending traditional Southern influences with contemporary production styles.
Songs like ‘HOOPTY’ and ‘YOU AINT GOTTA LIE’ bring a more melodic and danceable energy. Here, Curry’s versatility becomes more visible, helping shift the tone of the project toward a more modern trap direction. The album ultimately closes with ‘UP’, featuring Rich the Kid, a track that feels rooted in the SoundCloud-era trap aesthetic and serves as a fitting finale to an album that continuously expands its sound.
With Strictly 4 The Scythe, the collective firmly introduces itself. The album balances classic Southern grit with modern trap influences while showcasing the chemistry between its members. With Curry guiding the direction of the project and strong performances from TiaCorine, BKTheRula, Key Nyata and Ferg, the message is clear: The Scythe is just getting started.
TRAILBLAZER 