This album is no laughing nor scoffing matter, because it proves that you can have a good time listening to good tunes while learning something new or in-depth. Take the title into heavy consideration; “Bank Statements” consists of thirteen tracks, all filled with hip-hop greatness and newly curated arrangements.
Essentially, you’re getting yourself into a ‘managing finances for dummies’ course, but only in the form of great music and a span of thirty minutes. BobbyBullRun, the artist behind every ounce of this work, may have stated that this is aimed at future or current/existing entrepreneurs, when really this record feels like a stepping stone, a guide towards financial stability. These songs are written in a practical lens that aims for success and the ultimate end of the road which is happiness.
Money is not a strange topic for music to be about, but given the context of this record, it makes it all interesting. He’s rapping about strategies and jargon. But, who could complain when it’s all informative? The songs “Difference” and “Bankster” are great starters, giving us a first look at the vocals, which are full and evidently high quality. The latter is catchy with how the key parts are repetitive, and the instrumentals and overall beat compliment the delivery. The pacing is in moderation, which ensures that everything sung is picked up straight away by the audience.
“Fundamentals” is narrative in a sense, and the flow is so smooth that you have no choice but to listen to what he has to say. The progression has a certain groove to it, and it only intensifies once the vocals start up again. In the context of the album concept, he may be referring to starting simple, rather than beginning in the complex parts when it comes to learning all things finances. What’s notable about this one is that while all of that is in motion, the savagery and wittiness is still present all throughout.
In “Leverage”, he showcases a certain strategy for one’s gain, but there’s an underlying playful tone with this one, as it goes to say “look at all the broke boys” and “I am too big to fail”, which refers to the importance of being smart to retain financial stability.
With “Cash Flow”, arguably one of the best songs with its dreamy-esque, go-with-the-flow vibe. The melody is downright remarkable, and it’s paired with light harmonies that will get you absolutely hooked. If you happen to be lost in all that, allow us to remind you what it’s all about: money, in essence, is one of the factors to retain in order to remain sane. Every verse sings about how you can earn, so you yourself can see the revenue flow; if you’re trying to be rich, then you have to learn how to earn.
“Expedite” has a certain funk to it, as brass elements make its way up to the surface, seasoning up the arrangement nicely. It talks about resilience, in a way, making use of lowest points to lift yourself up rather than weighing you down more than they already have. What’s more is that the line “I speak affluence fluently” is actually well-put and wise as is. This song just emits a wise, yet cool vibe of knowing what to do with your money and making it grow.
If there’s anything this record imparts, it’s learning from mistakes by not being afraid to make them in the first place. It’s no mystery that this record speaks more truth than ever, like “you gotta bet on yourself”, a line that not only applies to money, but to life all in all. This makes “Risk” the best track to put as the send off.
It’s great how we get a balanced percentage of amazing melodies and meaningful lyrics, even if they do stem from practicality. If anything, “Bank Statements” deserves to be heard and to be out there. With that, send this album to someone, to yourself, to your playlists, and do yourself a favor.
Follow BobbyBullRun
Published in partnership with SubmitHub
About the Author
Kate Clarice Lee is a psychology major in Ateneo de Naga University with a knack for music and writing. She takes interest in playing guitar, poetry, creative writing, and lyrics that—subjectively—hit close to home. Kate mostly enjoys indie, alternative, pop & punk rock music.
