'Trapped' on top

Young Jeezy has been hyping “Thug Motivation 103” since late 2010 as he released promising singles that teased at an album that was delayed further and further, thus moving it into irrelevance.

Now that it’s finally here, Jeezy sounds like he’s still on top, even if that’s not the case anymore.

This is Snowman-brand trap music through and through: gritty vocals, club bangers, rags to riches storytelling and cocaine kingpin mythology. What sets this apart from the rest of his discography is his improved lyricism and beat selection.

Lead single “F.A.M.E.” reveals the balancing of his ego against his success and features an inspiring verse from fellow ATLien, T.I.

“Way Too Gone” rolls along a spacey beat with delicious delinquency. Highlight “Trapped” opens with a Jill Scott hook against a distorted choir to form the bedrock of a soaring street song.

If you’re looking for a thoughtful meditation on soul and identity, look elsewhere. If you’re looking for a motivational collection of bombastic trap anthems, get this now. Jeezy has honed his voice into a memorable and exciting release well worth the wait.