Buffalo, New York rapper and singer/songwriter Goosebytheway has officially arrived with his full-length studio debut, Nature Boy. Since signing to Drumwork Music Group in 2022, he has steadily built his reputation through strategic guest appearances on various Conway the Machine projects, following the release of his 2023 mixtape, By the Way. This new LP, titled after the legendary wrestler Ric Flair, marks a pivotal moment in his career.
The album opens with “203,” a collaboration with Conway the Machine that highlights their shared roots over an opulent soundscape. The project shifts gears with “Rivi,” which leans into a classic boom-bap aesthetic, questioning the listener’s familiarity with his rising profile. Tracks like “Pesto Margarita” maintain a gritty, percussion-heavy energy, while “Walk Ups”—featuring Conway the Machine and Fuego Base—showcases the trio navigating a sharp, drumless loop provided by Bozack Morris.
While some guest contributions, such as those on “Pedigree,” feel slightly uneven, the album finds its footing in the second act. “Selfish,” featuring Jae Skeese, stands out as a highlight, allowing the labelmates to trade verses with palpable chemistry. The project also features “Heisenberg,” a track that includes a nod to the iconic Breaking Bad protagonist, and concludes with the introspective “I Ain’t Did Enough,” a final boom-bap cut that reflects on the artist’s personal growth and responsibilities.
Ultimately, Nature Boy serves as a testament to Goosebytheway’s development. Despite the historical weight of the album’s title—referencing wrestling icons like Buddy Rogers and Ric Flair—the artist manages to carve out his own identity. With improved production and more polished performances, Goosebytheway has successfully justified the faith placed in him by his label.
Score: 7/10