Bennu Byrd’s In Rare Form Album Review: A Lively Addition to DMV Music

By Carrie Smith / May 10, 2023

Female rapper Bennu Byrd blends the traditional sounds of hip-hop with electronic dance music and DC’s signature Go-Go style. Previously known for her hit singles Miss Mary Mack, 12-22-22, and Reppin, Byrd is now gearing up to release her second album In Rare Form. The new album showcases her arsenal of heavy hitters, featuring a plethora of beats that coincide perfectly with her thought-provoking lyrics.

Born and raised in Washington, D.C. Byrd blends her roots with newly found artistic styles to form creative, authentic, and rich songs. Coincidentally, Byrd was born on July 16th, the same day Washington DC was founded, making her a perfect representation of the area’s music art forms. Growing up, Byrd immersed herself in the genre of hip hop and poetry writing, crafting astounding strings of words at a young age. These seeds along with dedication helped her plant and grow a miraculous album.

The 15 track In Rare Form stretches across the bounds of hip hop, sprinkling in echoes of various other genres. Within the album, Byrd demonstrates her mastery of the art with hard-hitting flows, captivating lyrics, and memorable melodies. Throughout the album, she speaks on her life experiences, real-world issues, and hike to fame. Each song represents a different side of Byrd, giving listeners a taste of what living in her world entails.

Going from front to back, the album starts with the intro Reflection of God. The track begins by announcing the “millennial soul-music” listeners are about to tune into, providing a hint of Byrd’s authentic twist. The initial Go-Go beat instantly draws ears to her roots and signature sound. Next up is Stay Regal, mentioning the theme of the album, “I’m in rare form unrestricted moves / living in my purpose unpredictable”.

In Rare Form - Track List

In songs like Top Off, Undressed, and Reach 4 Da Sky, Byrd’s zestful energy is apparent. However, Love Me presents her melodious side, with Lesa Campbell’s soothing voice paired with Byrd’s gentle lyrics. Teetering between subdued and lively is Heart Vs Brain, a more upbeat yet reflective approach on the confusion of love.

Hard-hitters Throw Away The Key and Incognegro exhibit Byrd’s ear-catching ability to relay striking messages. Byrd’s witness stands starkly in front of listeners, drawing them directly to clever rhymes with clear meanings. What immediately stands out about these two tracks is Byrd’s keen thinking affixed to her charming voice.

Her anthem Byrd is Da Word features another lighthearted Go Go beat. Showcasing her electric aura, this track perfectly displays Byrd’s bodacious personality and fervent attitude. Towards the end of the album is Big Steppin’, a tune expressing Byrd’s aspirations for a luxurious future lifestyle. Wrapping up, Byrd ends with outro Sweet Tooth with Dior Ashley Brown, highlighting a range of instruments, vocals, and tones linked together in one masterpiece.

The skits and interludes on the album, Really Byrd!?, Grammy Talk, and What U Been Working On? show an inside look at Byrd’s creativity, perspective, and personality. These paired with the other tracks, give listeners a wholesome viewpoint on who Byrd is and her determination to dominate the modern hip hop scene.

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