Local Review: Burnell Washburn – Gratitude

Burnell Washburn
Gratitude

Self-Released
Street: 05.18.14
Burnell Washburn = Action Bronson + Grieves + Kooley High

Burnell Washburn is a gifted rapper. Every track on Gratitude is like a chapter in an autobiography—there are some gut-wrenchingly honest moments, such as dealing with his mother’s terminal illness or enduring the loneliness that comes with being on tour. However, there is also a subtle positivity that permeates throughout the album. “Eyelashes” is straight-up powerful, as Washburn raps, “Had a dream where I had to spread my mom’s ashes / When I threw her off a mountain in the sky / She looked me in the eyes and said she felt alive.” With his impressive rhymes, it’s no surprise that he’s landed a spot on tour with Sage Francis, and I’m excited to see what he comes out with next. –Ali Shimkus