Trying To Tell The Truth

J.I.D featuring Mereba “All Bad”

J.I.D is primarily a rapper, and he raps very well throughout his new record The Never Story, but when I was choosing a song to feature here I had to go with this track where he’s mostly singing. “All Bad” has the tone of a sexy slow jam, but the lyrics are about a relationship that’s breaking down in slow motion. The emotions are complicated and messy on both sides, and neither seem to be ready to confront the other’s version of “the truth.” Mereba’s verse is a bit more confrontational in tone, but you can still hear a lot of love mixed in with the hurt. Hollywood JB’s production ties it all together with a gorgeous but low-key organ part that sounds like it’s being played slowly with a bit of caution, mirroring the way both singers are treading lightly around the most painful subjects in order to spare the other’s feelings. There’s a woozy feeling to it too, especially at the end when the keyboard part is suddenly pitched up as it’s being played.

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