Released on Nov. 15, 2011, Camp is an album by actor, comedian, and rapper
Donald Glover, better known as Childish Gambino. This album is 56 minutes long, It is a bold
introduction to his unique style. It is a blend of hip-hop, alternative rap, and hints of R&B. Camp
showcases an artist attempting to carve out a spot in the music industry for himself.
Lyrically, Camp is intensely personal and self-reflective, with Gambino touching on topics
such as identity, insecurity, race, and fame. Songs like Outside and That Power dive into his
upbringing and the isolation he’s felt in both black and white communities. His background in
stand-up comedy shows in the lyrics, with clever wording that emphasizes how he feels, and
many good references.
In addition to its lyrical depth, Camp brings a diverse production to the music realm that
complements Gambino’s individuality. Tracks like Bonfire and Letter to Emma showcase his
versatility, blending catchy hooks with meticulously picked words. The album solidifies his spot
in the hip-hop genre due to his insane beats and instrumentation.
All in all, I’d rate Camp a 7/10. It’s a flawed but fascinating album that highlights Childish
Gambino’s ambition. While not all the tracks are the best, the album’s emotional honesty and
uniqueness make it a compelling listen, especially for those interested in the early stages of an
artist who has a lot of potential.
